July crimes: Quader, 6 others get death penalty

The International Crimes Tribunal has sentenced Awami League General Secretary Obaidul Quader and six others to death in a case filed over crimes against humanity committed during the 2024 July Uprising.

The three-member International Crimes Tribunal-2, headed by Justice Md Nazrul Islam Chowdhury, delivered its verdict today (15 September). 

The six other accused – Awami League Joint General Secretary AFM Bahauddin Nasim, former state minister for information and broadcasting Mohammad Ali Arafat, Jubo League President Sheikh Fazle Shams Parash, General Secretary Moinul Hossain Khan Nikhil, Chhatra League President Saddam Hussain and General Secretary Sheikh Wali Asif Enan – were also given the death penalty. 

All seven are currently absconding. 

Earlier, on 17 August, the tribunal kept the case awaiting verdict after the completion of closing arguments. The recording of evidence concluded on 2 August, with 29 prosecution witnesses, including the investigating officer, testifying in the case. 

Yesterday, International Crimes Tribunal-2 set the date to announce its verdict in the case.

On 22 January, the tribunal framed charges against the seven and ordered the trial to begin. Earlier, on 18 December last year, the same tribunal had taken cognisance of the formal charges submitted by the prosecution.

According to the prosecution, the accused jointly issued directives and made provocative and inciting statements to suppress the July Uprising. They also held several meetings to plan violence and called on party leaders and activists to take to the streets and build resistance against the protesters.

The prosecution further alleged that they had played roles in armed attacks, severe repression and controlling the media in some areas.

Their actions resulted in killings, attempted killings and widespread violence across the country, which constitute crimes against humanity punishable under the law, according to the prosecution.