Dhaka: Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs Adviser Dr. Asif Nazrul today announced that the government might establish International Crimes Tribunal (ICT)-3 to speed up the trials of crimes, including enforced disappearance. "We are giving the highest priority to the trial of crimes against humanity. We are committed to ensuring justice for all crimes committed by the previous government, including killings, enforced disappearances, and torture," he stated to journalists after inspecting the ICT building and its surrounding areas this morning.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Dr. Nazrul explained that once the tin-shed building (currently housing ICT-2) adjacent to the main tribunal building is vacated, ICT-3 could be established there. This move is expected to expedite trials involving enforced disappearances and other international crimes. He emphasized the diligent work being carried out by judges, along with prosecution and investigation teams, on cases related to crimes against humanity.
"In the interest of the country and the restoration of democracy, it is essential to establish justice, the rule of law, and human rights. The trial of the horrific crimes against humanity-such as the killing of more than a thousand students and people during the July uprising and maiming of thousands more-is indispensable and inevitable. From the beginning, we have remained steadfast in this pursuit of justice and we are satisfied with the current pace of proceedings," Dr. Nazrul added.
Also present during the visit were Housing and Public Works Adviser Adilur Rahman Khan, Attorney General Md Asaduzzaman, ICT Chief Prosecutor Muhammad Tajul Islam, and other prosecutors.