CPB demands trial of Yunus, Nurjahan over measles deaths

The Communist Party of Bangladesh (CPB) has demanded the arrest and trial of former chief adviser of the interim government Prof Muhammad Yunus, former health adviser Nurjahan Begum, and others concerned over the deaths of more than 300 children in the country due to measles and measles-related symptoms.

The demand was raised by party leaders at a protest rally held at Madhubagh Field in the capital’s Moghbazar area on Saturday. The Hatirjheel unit of the CPB Dhaka north city organised the programme.

Hasan Hafizur Rahman Sohel, president of the CPB Dhaka north city, said that the unusual deaths of children created deep concern and anger among the public. 

He alleged that the situation arose due to the interim government’s extreme negligence.

Sohel said, “Bangladesh once set an example for the world in vaccination programmes. But due to the negligence of the Yunus-led government, children are now losing their lives. The current government is maintaining a mysteriously silent role.”

Speakers at the rally alleged that there was a lack of adequate ICU facilities for children infected with measles. 

They also claimed that many of the deaths could have been prevented if effective measures had been taken in time.

The speakers further said that although various unnecessary issues were discussed in parliament, such a humanitarian disaster did not receive adequate attention.

They demanded a proper investigation into the incident and exemplary punishment for those responsible.

The rally was presided over by CPB Hatirjheel unit leader Mastan Sher Shahadat and moderated by Secretary Kallol Banik. 

Other speakers included Shyamal Biswas, Zahirul Islam, Hawkers Union General Secretary Sekandar Hayat, Murshikul Islam, Harendranath Mondal, and student leader Prism Fakir.

After the rally, a protest procession began from Madhubagh Field and ended at the Moghbazar Wireless Gate area.