Rohingyas Rally Demanding Justice, Repatriation in Cox's Bazar

The right to a dignified return to their homes with full civil rights was one of five requests Rohingyas made during peaceful demonstrations they staged in 2017.

According to Rohingya leaders, the meeting was held separately in the rain in each of the four camps of Ukhiya and Teknaf on Friday from 10:30am to 12:30pm.

The protests aimed to express a range of issues, including the demand for their immediate return to Myanmar, acknowledgement of their ethnic identity, the establishment of a secure region for the Rohingya within Myanmar, the restitution of their houses, and the assurance of civil rights in the Rakhine State.

Designating August 25 as Genocide and Black Day, the Rohingyas held a collective desire to return to their homeland, Arakan in Myanmar, and to secure justice for the atrocities inflicted upon them.

Under the rallying theme of "Go Back Home," Rohingya community leaders from various camps and blocks articulated their multifaceted demands, all united by a single call – "We want justice."

Gatherings took place in Ukhiya’s Kutupalong, Jamtali of Palangkhali, Maynarghona, and Leda camp in Teknaf.

Within these rallies, they called for a just trial for the 2017 killings and assaults, immediate repatriation of Rohingyas with unwavering dignity, the restoration of civil rights, the repeal of the Myanmar Citizenship Act of 1982, the reclamation of their Rakhine homes, and the creation of a protected zone for Rohingyas within Myanmar.

The international community, including the United Nations, was earnestly urged to translate these demands into action. The Rohingyas expressed gratitude to the Bangladeshi government for providing them with a safe haven.

Security arrangements were bolstered by the Armed Police Battalion (APBn), district police, and other law enforcement agencies, ensuring order and safety during these gatherings.

The protests commemorate the day, August 25, 2017, that the Rohingyas left their country. Following widespread persecution and genocide in Myanmar's Rakhine state, there was a mass exodus.

On August 25, 2019, the camp hosted the first important rally, which was presided over by Master Muhibullah. Later, members of the Myanmar organization Arsa murdered him.