Michael Chakma files complaint with ICT against Hasina over enforced disappearance
The United People's Democratic Front leader Michael submitted the allegation to the office of the chief prosecutor of the ICT.
Michael Chakma, leader of the United People's Democratic Front (UPDF), has filed a complaint with the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT), accusing ousted prime minister Sheikh Hasina in relation to his enforced disappearance.
"I believe I have been a victim of vengeance, and I hold Sheikh Hasina as the main accused for my enforced disappearance. I will also file complaints against those who were involved and assisted her. The details will be provided in the written complaint," Michael Chakma told journalists after filing the complaint today (18 December).
Tribunal's Chief Prosecutor Mohammad Tajul Islam said, "Michael has shared details of his enforced disappearance, the nature of his captivity, and the conditions he endured. His account confirms that he was a victim of systematic enforced disappearance during the tenure of the previous government. He has also shared the same testimony with the commission of inquiry on enforced disappearances.
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"We are taking his verbal complaint into account. An investigation will be conducted, and the findings will be presented to the court for trial," he added.
Most of the individuals accused by Michael Chakma are already facing legal proceedings. However, the prosecutor stated that if additional suspects are identified, further investigations will be conducted.
"The investigation into all cases of enforced disappearances is being carried out under a broader framework, but separate investigations will be conducted, if necessary," said Tajul Islam.
Michael Chakma was accompanied at the International Crimes Tribunal by acclaimed photographer and rights activist Shahidul Alam, his wife Rehnuma Ahmed, and Tribunal Prosecutor Abdullah Al Noman.
Michael Chakma, who went missing on 9 April 2019, was held captive at "Aynaghor", the nickname of the secret detention centres run by law enforcement and intelligence agencies.
He was active in advocating for the liberation and democratic rights of all ethnic communities across the country, including the Chittagong Hill Tracts.
On 7 August, two days after the fall of the Awami League government on 5 August, he was released blindfolded at a location on the Chattogram-Khagrachari road.
