Chief Prosecutor Mohammad Tajul Islam has sought the death penalty for former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and ex-Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan in connection with crimes against humanity allegedly committed during the July Uprising. The appeal was made today during the closing arguments by the prosecution at International Crimes Tribunal-1 in Dhaka.
The case involves three accused, including former Inspector General of Police (IGP) Chowdhury Abdullah Al-Mamun, who has confessed to his involvement and is serving as an approver (state witness). According to the prosecution, Mamun has disclosed the full truth regarding the events in his testimony, and the tribunal will decide on his legal fate.
Both Sheikh Hasina and Asaduzzaman Khan are currently absconding. A state-appointed defense lawyer, Md. Amir Hossain, has requested one week to prepare for presenting their side of the arguments. The tribunal has ordered the defense to begin arguments next Monday.
The case is being heard by a three-member panel of the International Crimes Tribunal-1, headed by Justice Md. Golam Mortuza Mojumdar, along with Justice Md. Shafiul Alam Mahmud and Judge Mohitul Haque Enam Chowdhury.
This high-profile trial marks a significant turn in the legal proceedings following the political upheaval and violence associated with the July Uprising.