ICT to probe AL for crimes against humanity

The International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) is set to begin a primary investigation into allegations of crimes against humanity against the Awami League as a political party, Chief Prosecutor Mohammad Tajul Islam said yesterday.

This is the first time in history that the ICT prosecution has decided to probe a political party for allegations of crimes against humanity.

On May 10, President Mohammed Shahabuddin promulgated an ordinance amending the International Crimes (Tribunals) Act, 1973, to empower the tribunals to try a political party facing charges of genocide and crimes against humanity and punish it if found guilty.

The move followed complaints and investigation reports bringing allegations against state forces and affiliated political organisations of killing, injuring and otherwise repressing thousands of protesters during last year's July uprising.

Responding to a question from journalists regarding recent remarks by Law Adviser Asif Nazrul, Tajul said a political party named NDM (Nationalist Democratic Movement) had earlier lodged a formal complaint accusing the Awami League as a party of committing crimes against humanity.

"Based on that complaint, we have initiated the process of investigation. So, you can say that we are now moving to start an investigation against Awami League as an organisation under charges of crimes against humanity," he said.

While speaking at an event last week, the law adviser said the ICT prosecution team is preparing to try the Awami League as an organisation, and as such, the ban on Awami League's political activities is unlikely to be withdrawn anytime soon.

Tajul noted that the investigation is currently at the verification stage.

"Yes, a complaint has been filed. We are seriously scrutinising it, and a formal investigation will begin very soon."

He also mentioned that once the investigation starts in full swing, the prosecution will be able to provide a clearer picture of how far the process of holding the Awami League accountable as a party has advanced.

Responding to another query, Tajul said, "Trials in several cases are nearing completion. Charge sheets in major cases are likely to be submitted this month, and formal charges are also expected to be pressed soon."

He said there is a strong desire among the people to know how far the process has progressed regarding the trial of those who have been involved in enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings over the past 15 years.

"Within a day or two, we will be able to inform the nation about the progress."