Probe begins into Awami League over crimes against humanity, investigating officer assigned

The Investigation Agency of the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) has formally begun an investigation against the Awami League for alleged crimes against humanity committed during the July Uprising last year.

An investigating officer has already been appointed to lead the probe, Chief Prosecutor Mohammad Tajul Islam confirmed to journalists today (7 October).

Earlier, during a press briefing on Sunday (5 October), the chief prosecutor had hinted at the start of a formal investigation while responding to a question from reporters.

Prior to that, on 2 October last year, National Democratic Movement Chairman Bobby Hajjaj submitted a complaint to the ICT's Chief Prosecutor, alleging that the Awami League and 14 other political parties were directly responsible for ordering mass killings.

"We are initiating a preliminary investigation based on the allegations," said Chief Prosecutor Tajul Islam.

"Once the full-scale investigation begins, we will be able to determine how far the matter may proceed," he added.

"The process of investigating the Awami League was already underway. Following that, the formal probe has now begun, and an investigating officer has been appointed. They will complete the investigation very soon. Upon receiving the report, appropriate action will be taken regarding the trial of the Awami League as a political party," Tajul said while speaking to journalists at the tribunal premises today. 

When asked about possible punishment for a political party, he explained, "A party itself cannot be punished like an individual, but the International Crimes Tribunal Act clearly defines what kinds of penalties can be imposed. For example, a party can be banned, penalised through other processes, or directives may be issued concerning its leaders and members. These provisions exist in the law. At present, the investigation has begun specifically into the Awami League. If it appears necessary to investigate other parties involved, the agency will take action accordingly."

Tajul further noted that the application seeking trial of the Awami League had been submitted earlier. 

"Since it was not possible to dispose of all applications simultaneously, we are proceeding gradually. This investigation has begun in that sequence," he said.

He added that testimonies from witnesses recorded in court will serve as formal evidence in this case. 

"Those statements will be considered as part of the official documentation," he said.

When asked about earlier remarks hinting at "a number of significant developments" this week, Tajul responded, "We said that several investigation reports would be submitted, and we expect that to happen within this week."

According to a recently issued ordinance amending the International Crimes (Tribunal) Act, the tribunal holds the authority to take action against any organisation found to have committed, ordered, attempted, abetted, incited, aided, conspired, or otherwise assisted in crimes under Section 3(2) of the Act.

If proven, the tribunal can suspend or ban the organisation's activities, revoke its registration or licence, and confiscate its assets, notwithstanding any other laws currently in force.