Chief Adviser, Don’t Shield Ali Riaz

Editorial

On Tuesday, Atandranu Ripa publicly accused Ali Riaz, a close aide to Chief Adviser Mohammad Yunus and a faculty of the Illinois State University, of sexual misconduct. The allegation is serious: it claims that Riaz lied about having a vasectomy, engaged in sexual activity without contraception, and coerced an abortion—an act that is illegal in Bangladesh.

Instead of initiating a transparent investigation, the Chief Adviser took to his verified Facebook page to issue a denial on Riaz’s behalf and threaten the alleged victim with legal action. This response is deeply troubling. Leadership cannot be a shield for the powerful or a weapon against survivors.

When allegations of sexual abuse arise, the first duty of any leader is to ensure justice. This means a prompt, impartial investigation by independent authorities—not public denials or intimidation. Any other approach undermines both the rule of law and public trust.

The stakes are high. Survivors in Bangladesh already face enormous social and legal pressures. Public officials must act as guardians of accountability, not enablers of impunity. Protecting aides at the expense of justice sends a dangerous signal: that loyalty outweighs morality, and power trumps truth.

The Chief Adviser—and by extension, the government—faces a choice. They can either treat this allegation with the seriousness it demands or risk eroding the public’s faith in leadership and justice. True authority is measured not by the protection of allies but by the courage to uphold the law, even when it is uncomfortable.

In matters of sexual misconduct, hesitation is complicity. The path forward is clear: investigate, protect the victim, and let the law, not social or political influence, determine accountability. Anything less is a betrayal of both justice and leadership.