Testimony concludes in crimes against humanity case against Quader, 6 others

Testimony concluded today (2 August) in a crimes against humanity case against Awami League General Secretary Obaidul Quader and six other leaders of the party and its affiliated organisations over offences committed during the July Uprising.

The three-member International Crimes Tribunal-2 (ICT), led by Justice Nazrul Islam Chowdhury, also fixed Tuesday (4 August) for closing arguments, the final stage of the trial.

The prosecution said the tribunal will either keep the case awaiting verdict or set a date to deliver the judgment after both sides complete their arguments.

During proceedings, state-appointed defence lawyers Lokman Hawlader and Ishrat Jahan cross-examined investigating officer Ahmed Naser Uddin Mohammad, the 27th and final witness in the case.

Prosecutor Faruk Ahmad represented the prosecution, assisted by Prosecutor Moinul Karim and others.

Earlier, journalist Ashraf Kaiser testified on 26 July, describing the Awami League’s prolonged rule and the events of the July Uprising.

The recording of testimony had initially concluded on 27 April, and the tribunal subsequently fixed a date for closing arguments.

However, following an application from the prosecution, Ashraf’s testimony was recorded, after which the investigation officer testified again.

The other accused are Awami League Joint General Secretary AFM Bahauddin Nasim, former state minister for information and broadcasting Mohammad Ali Arafat, Jubo League Chairman Sheikh Fazle Shams Parash, its General Secretary Mainul Hossain Khan Nikhil, Chhatra League President Saddam Hossain and its General Secretary Wali Asif Inan.

All seven accused remain absconding.

The tribunal ordered the trial to begin after framing charges against the accused on 22 January this year. It had taken cognisance of the charges submitted by the prosecution on 18 December last year.

According to the prosecution, the accused jointly issued directives and delivered provocative and inciting speeches to suppress the July movement.

They also allegedly called on party activists to take to the streets and resist the protesters, and planned violence at several meetings.

The prosecution further alleged that they were involved in armed attacks, severe repression and efforts to control the media in different areas.

Their actions resulted in killings, attempted killings and widespread violence across the country, constituting punishable crimes against humanity, it said.