Arrest warrants issued against former Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina and 45 Awami league leaders
- In Reports
- 03:38 PM, Oct 17, 2024
- Myind Staff
The International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) has issued arrest warrants against former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, alongside 45 other prominent leaders of the Awami League, including former ministers and officials. This significant development occurred on Thursday, October 17, in connection with alleged crimes against humanity committed during the July-August uprising, as reported by The Daily Star.
The tribunal’s proceedings, presided over by Justice Golam Mortuza Majumdar, saw prosecutors request arrest warrants for 50 individuals, including Hasina. Chief Prosecutor Muhammad Tajul Islam confirmed this to reporters, stating, “The court has… ordered the arrest of former prime minister Sheikh Hasina and to produce her in court on November 18.” He further added, “I appealed to the court that if the accused, who are extremely influential, are not arrested, it will be impossible to conduct the investigation.”
Islam alleged, “Sheikh Hasina was at the helm of those who committed massacres, killings, and crimes against humanity from July to August.” The list of those targeted by the arrest warrants includes notable figures such as former ministers Obaidul Quader, Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal, Hasan Mahmud, and Anisul Huq.
Sources within the Tribunal indicated that over 60 complaints have been filed against Sheikh Hasina and her party members, with charges related to crimes against humanity and genocide. In light of these proceedings, the government has also prepared a draft to amend the International Crimes (Tribunals) Act-1973.
Party leaders from the Awami League were not immediately available for comment, as many senior members have either been arrested or have gone into hiding. However, Hasina’s son, Sajeeb Wazed, told Reuters last month that his mother was ready to face trial in Bangladesh, adding: “My mother has done nothing wrong.”
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