Ducsu leaders testify before ICT, demand trial of former DU VC and proctorial staff

Dhaka University Central Students' Union (Ducsu) Vice President Abu Shadik Kayem has said that former Dhaka University vice-chancellor ASM Maksud Kamal, along with members of the university's proctorial body and administration active during the Anti-discrimination Student Movement, will face justice in independent Bangladesh.

Speaking to reporters today (11 December) on the premises of the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT), Kayem made the remarks after providing testimony to the ICT's Investigation Agency. He appeared before investigators along with Ducsu Literature and Culture Secretary Mosaddeq Ali Ibne Mohammad and Transport Secretary Asif Abdullah. The trio gave their statements from morning until 1pm before briefing the media.

Kayem told journalists that they have already received substantial information regarding former VC Maksud Kamal and alleged that various quarters, including individuals within the interim government and a section of Dhaka University teachers' associations, were attempting to provide him a "safe exit."

He further alleged that during the July mass uprising, Maksud Kamal brought outsiders onto campus to attack students. "He will be tried in this independent Bangladesh," Kayem said, adding that all members of the then proctorial body and administration would also face trial. "They bloodied this campus, injured our brothers and sisters, and carried out attacks no less brutal than Israeli assaults on Palestinians," he claimed. He said they have submitted all evidence in their possession to investigators.

Kayem added that they came to give testimony in the ongoing case concerning the killings in July, including alleged acts of genocide, child murder, and widespread torture of students, and the role of those who supported former prime minister Sheikh Hasina at the time.