Bangladesh seeks to set a global precedent in genocide trials, says Nahid Islam
He assured that the government would welcome the advice, cooperation, and expertise of the International Jurists Union
"The genocide by the fascist Awami League government during the July uprising is unimaginable. Every Bangladeshi demand justice. The interim government is committed to a transparent and impartial trial. Bangladesh aims to set a global precedent in holding such trials."
Md Nahid Islam, adviser to the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, made this statement on Tuesday (10 December) at his office in the Secretariat during a meeting with a delegation from the International Jurists Union.
At the start of the meeting, the delegation watched a video titled 'July Onirban', which focused on the July uprising.
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Nahid Islam said, "Following the uprising, on 5 August, Hasina fled the country. With no government for three days, many supporters of the regime took the chance to escape."
He added that the process of bringing the perpetrators to justice had begun, with evidence collection at its initial stage.
When the delegation asked about the timeline and process of the genocide trial, the adviser said the International Crimes Tribunal would expedite it, following a transparent, internationally standardised process.
He emphasised that the trial would not be one of revenge, as justice means fairness, stating that all anti-fascist parties are united in their support for the trial. Additionally, he expressed hope for both domestic and international cooperation.
The adviser added, "The international community is watching the process closely and the interim government is taking the matter seriously." He assured that the government would welcome the advice, cooperation, and expertise of the International Jurists Union.
The delegation said the July uprising genocide was a clear crime and the perpetrators must be prosecuted. They expressed support for the trial and readiness to cooperate with the interim government.
Present at the meeting were Information and Broadcasting Ministry Secretary Mahbuba Farzana, ICT Policy Adviser Fayez Ahmad Taiyyeb, deans from various universities, and chief prosecutors with judicial experience in four Turkish uprisings.
Also present were several former members of the Turkish parliament, representatives of Turkish civil society, and prosecutors from Bangladesh's International Crimes Tribunal.
