Enforced disappearance: Michael Chakma files complaint with ICT against Hasina

Michael Chakma, leader of the United People's Democratic Front (UPDF), has filed a complaint with the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) today (18 December), accusing former 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. 

Chief Prosecutor of the ICT, Mohammad Tajul Islam said, "The secret prison, widely discussed as a detention facility, is where Michael was reportedly held. He 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 disappearances during the tenure of the previous government. He has also shared the same testimony with the commission of inquiry on enforced disappearances."

"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," he said.

Michael Chakma was accompanied at the International Crimes Tribunal by Bangladeshi photographer and human rights activist Shahidul Alam, his wife Rehnuma Ahmed, and Tribunal Prosecutor Abdullah Al Noman.

Michael Chakma went missing on 9 April 2019. He was held captive at "Aynaghor", the nickname of the secret detention centre run by the Director General of Forces Intelligence (DGFI).

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 Chittagong-Khagrachari road.