The German Embassy in Dhaka sent a letter to BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia protesting an attack on an internationally acclaimed German architect during the BNP-led 18-party alliance’s road blockade, said a statement of the embassy issued on Monday.
German Ambassador Dr Albrecht Conze also said that they had reported the incident to the foreign ministry.
“A group of Hooligans carrying BNP symbols attacked the car of Ms Anna Heringer, a winner of Aga Khan Prize for Architecture and the Global Award for Sustainable Architecture, at Gabtoli market around 7:30am on Sunday,” the statement said.
“She is now on an official visit to Bangladesh sponsored by the German development agency GIZ and was returning to Dhaka from a field visit when a group of about 15 men stopped her car, destroyed all of its windows and dragged the driver out of the vehicle,” the statement added.
“Fearing for her life, Anna jumped out of her car and managed to abscond.”
“Her driver was badly beaten up by the mob and is now suffering from severe head injuries. Later, the miscreants also set fire to his car which was donated by the German government.”
“Over many years, Anna has dedicated much time and effort to assist Bangladesh on its way out of poverty. She has been a strong advocate of the people of Bangladesh in Germany.”
“She is one of the most renowned contemporary German architects. Her work has been on display in the Museum of Modern Art in New York and at the Biennale at Venice.”
Source: The Daily Star
