Exemplary trial possible through ICT, army coordination: Ex-Forces Association
The association also alleged that certain vested quarters, both at home and abroad, are attempting to destabilise Bangladesh’s internal political environment
The Ex-Forces Association has said that as both the Bangladesh Army Act and the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) are constitutionally recognised, coordination between the two could set a precedent of an exemplary trial for the army officials accused of crimes against humanity.
At a press conference at the Dhaka Reporters Unity today (14 October), the organisation – comprising former military and paramilitary personnel – said such an initiative would ensure that "no mother loses her son again, no wife becomes a widow, and no child grows up without calling someone father."
The statement follows the Bangladesh Army's recent announcement of detaining several officials over alleged crimes against humanity.
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Reading out a written statement, Lt (Retd) Saifullah Khan Saif, general secretary of the association, said, "We firmly state that we are in favour of bringing the accused to justice. But that justice must be transparent, based on concrete evidence, and guided by the principles of the Constitution and human rights — without any compromise."
He further added, "We believe that violating any citizen's fundamental rights is unconstitutional. The Constitution clearly stipulates that no person shall be deemed guilty until proven guilty, and if that person is a public servant, their service shall remain valid under the law until such proof."
The association also alleged that certain vested quarters, both at home and abroad, are attempting to destabilise Bangladesh's internal political environment.
"They are exploiting social media platforms to undermine the country's sovereignty, tarnish the image of the armed forces, and destroy national unity," Lt (Retd) Saifullah added.
Earlier, on 11 October, the Bangladesh Army said 15 army officers, who were facing arrest warrants issued in separate cases over enforced disappearances and torture committed during the Awami League's rule, have been taken into military custody.
On 12 October, ICT Chief Prosecutor Tajul Islam said the 15 army officers must be produced before the tribunal within 24 hours, as required by law, following the issuance of arrest warrants.
Meanwhile, the government has temporarily declared a building in Dhaka Cantonment as a prison.
According to a notification issued by the Department of Prisons of the home ministry, the declaration was made under the authority of Section 541 (1) of The Code of Criminal Procedure, 1898 and Section 3(B) of the Prisons Act, 1894 (IX of 1894).
The notification, signed by Md Hafiz Al Asad, deputy secretary of the Security Services Division of the home ministry, states that the 'MES Building-54', located on the north side of Bashar Road in Dhaka Cantonment, has been designated as a temporary prison.
