Probe body

Regrettably, none of the reports or recommendations of the previous probe committees have seen the light of the day. Even less has any government seen fit to act upon their recommendations, if, indeed, there were any. Many even feel that a judicial committee will only help in stalling the matter. Those who have rejected the formation of the committee may have good reason to do so.

We feel that there is considerable merit in the suggestion that such a probe body should be composed of one or more retired chief justices so that it can work independently and in a neutral manner. It is also our opinion that, given the graduation in the degree of sophistication of the weapons used, the body should also comprise weapons experts.

Tap here to add The Daily Star as a trusted source

Finally, the matter being so grave as to impact on our state security, there is considerable merit in deciding the composition of the committee through consultation with all concerned.

We are not privy to the terms of reference of the one-man probe body. The output of this probe body must not end up the way of the previous ones. Thus we feel it should be tasked with specific responsibilities, including identifying the perpetrators of this act and their sponsors and cohorts, both inside and outside the country. We also urge the government to make the report public once it is completed.

One would also hope that the probe body would identify the causes for the grave lapse in the security measures afforded the leader of the opposition, which she, by virtue of her position, is entitled to from the state.

We cannot emphasise enough the timely use of foreign assistance that is on offer, instead of waiting until after the probe body completes its job. Why not use the foreign expertise to assist the probe body in its investigative work?

The probe body, hopefully reconstituted, must deliver to the nation. Not only is the credibility of the government at stake, more importantly, the safety of the people and the security of the nation is in jeopardy.