Dhaka: Attorney General (AG) Md. Asaduzzaman today hailed the verdict delivered in a case involving crimes against humanity during the July-August 2024 mass uprising as a landmark judgment and a crucial message for future generations. The tribunal sentenced the ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal to death, marking a significant moment in Bangladesh’s pursuit of justice.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the Attorney General expressed that this historic verdict ensures justice for the martyrs and the prosecution. He emphasized that the maximum punishment awarded to the two accused in this case underscores the standard of justice served. Additionally, another accused, former IGP Chowdhury Abdullah Al-Mamun, who turned state witness, received a five-year imprisonment sentence after the court’s comprehensive consideration.
The Attorney General remarked that this verdict stands as a milestone for justice and the rule of law in Bangladesh. The International Crimes Tribunal-1’s decision underscores the commitment to hold accountable those responsible for crimes during the tumultuous mass uprising.
The tribunal’s proceedings concluded with the defense arguments on October 22, followed by Chief Prosecutor Tajul Islam’s rebuttal on October 23, setting the stage for the verdict announced on November 13. State-appointed counsel Advocate Amir Hossain represented the fugitive accused Sheikh Hasina and Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal, while Advocate Jaiad Bin Amjad defended Abdullah Al-Mamun.
The prosecution presented extensive evidence, including documentaries, audio recordings, and witness testimonies, to establish the systematic nature of the crimes aimed at suppressing the uprising. A total of 54 prosecution witnesses, including prominent figures such as Abu Sayed’s father, National Citizen Party Convener Nahid Islam, and journalist Mahmudur Rahman, provided crucial testimonies.
Earlier, on June 17, the tribunal issued notices in national dailies, urging Hasina and Kamal to surrender by June 24, warning that the trial would proceed in absentia if they failed to comply. The prosecution filed five charges of crimes against humanity and mass killings against the accused based on a probe report submitted on May 12, leading to charges framed on July 10.
Chief Prosecutor Tajul informed the court that both accused were absconding, with intelligence reports suggesting their presence in India. The verdict’s announcement marks a pivotal moment in Bangladesh’s judicial history, reinforcing the nation’s commitment to justice and accountability.