Dhaka: The prosecution of the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) expressed optimism today about concluding the testimony phase in the crimes against humanity case involving Sheikh Hasina, Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal, and Chowdhury Abdullah Al-Mamun by October.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, prosecutor Mizanul Islam indicated that testimony from material witnesses could be completed by the end of September, with a possible extension to the first week of October. The investigation officer’s testimony remains pending.
Four new prosecution witnesses testified today, bringing the total number of witnesses to nine. Among them was July protester Abdus Samad, who recounted being shot by police during an anti-discrimination rally in July 2024. Despite two admissions to Dhaka Medical College Hospital, the bullet lodged in his head was only removed at Ibn Sina Hospital in August.
Md Mizan Miah corroborated the recovery of the bullet extracted from Samad’s head as a seizure list witness. Another witness, Nayeem Shikder, described being shot by police in Khulna in early August, receiving 500 pellets on his back. He continues to receive treatment for his injuries.
The tribunal also heard from Shahina Begum, mother of July Mass Uprising martyr Sazzad Hossain Sajal, who detailed the events of August 5 when her son was killed and his body subsequently burned by police in Ashulia.
All witnesses demanded justice and accountability for the alleged crimes during the July-August Mass Uprising, implicating Sheikh Hasina and others.
The tribunal had indicted Sheikh Hasina, Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal, and Chowdhury Abdullah Al-Mamun on July 10 for their roles in the alleged atrocities. Notices were issued in June, prompting the accused to surrender by June 24, with the trial proceeding in their absence if they failed to comply.
Chief Prosecutor Muhammad Tajul Islam confirmed that Hasina and Kamal remain fugitives, reportedly in India. The prosecution has filed five charges against them, with the investigation report submitted in May.
The case continues to unfold as the ICT seeks to deliver justice for the alleged crimes committed during the mass uprising.