In a historic move, the trial against former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina commenced on Sunday following the submission of an investigation report to the International Criminal Tribunal (ICT) in Dhaka in a case concerning crimes against humanity. Chief Prosecutor Tajul Islam presented the report on Sunday morning, marking the first time in the nation's history that a trial of this magnitude was broadcast live. The proceedings were aired on Bangladesh Television and streamed via the tribunal's official Facebook and YouTube platforms.
Alongside Hasina, the report includes charges against former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan. Names of other high-profile individuals such as Awami League General Secretary Obaidul Quader, Hasina’s private industry advisor Salman F Rahman and the former inspector general of police have also surfaced in the investigation. The allegations involve issuing violent directives, incitement to terrorism, murder and body mutilation.
The report states that Hasina incited violence by referring to anti-quota protestors as "children of Rajakars (traitors)." Graver allegations include the dismemberment of victims’ bodies, denial of bodies to families, mass burials and the use of helicopters and drones to carry out coordinated massacres under the orders of Hasina and Asaduzzaman.
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In response, Awami League's Quader released a strong statement on Sunday, condemning what he described as an "illegal fascist and militant" regime led by the so-called Yunus government. He accused the administration of systematically deploying media and social media platforms to malign the Awami League and tarnish the legacy of Hasina, daughter of the Father of the Nation, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.
Quader asserted that the current government lacks both constitutional legitimacy and public support. “They seized power by deceiving the people and now cling to it like a rock,” he said, adding that ongoing efforts to suppress the Awami League and discredit Hasina were signs of desperation.
He further claimed that the public continues to place its trust in Hasina and that such faith signals her inevitable return. “The pure emotions of the people toward Jananetri Sheikh Hasina foretell another glorious homecoming,” he stated.
In his closing remarks, Quader reaffirmed the Awami League’s commitment to the vision of transforming Bangladesh into a developed and prosperous nation. He drew a parallel with the spirit of the 1971 Liberation War, emphasising the historical resilience of the Bengali people. “As we once defeated the Pakistani occupying forces, we will again overcome the current fascist and militant conspirators,” he declared.
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