Bangladesh crimes tribunal issues arrest warrant for Sheikh Hasina and 45 Awami League leaders
In a significant development, the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) of Bangladesh has issued arrest warrants for former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and 45 senior leaders of the Awami League. This action stems from allegations of crimes against humanity during the student-led uprising against her government in July and August of this year.
The tribunal, overseen by Justice Md Golam Mortuza Majumdar, has ordered that Hasina and the other accused be presented before the court by November 18, as announced by chief prosecutor Muhammad Tajul Islam. Prominent figures implicated in the warrants include former ministers Obaidul Quader, Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal, Hasan Mahmud, and Anisul Huq.
The issuance of the warrants follows a thorough review of over 60 complaints detailing accusations against Hasina and her associates, which include serious charges such as genocide. Investigations are already in progress, spearheaded by the ICT’s investigation agency and prosecution team.
In a move to facilitate these proceedings, the tribunal has sought assistance from Interpol to locate and potentially extradite fugitives, including Hasina, who may currently be residing abroad.
Bangladesh’s interim government foreign affairs advisor, Mohammed Touhid Hossain, acknowledged the diplomatic challenges involved in seeking Hasina’s extradition, particularly due to her current location in India.
Hasina, who resigned from her position as Prime Minister on August 5 amidst widespread protests over a contentious government job quota system, fled to India shortly thereafter. Following her departure, a caretaker government led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus assumed power, navigating a complex political landscape.
As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how these developments will impact Bangladesh’s political climate and the response from international stakeholders.
