Trials must not halt after polls
Nahid Islam, convener of the National Citizen Party (NCP), yesterday expressed hope that the ongoing trials for crimes against humanity committed during last year's July uprising will not be disrupted after the upcoming national election.
"To ensure that the trial process is not obstructed even after the election, we have demanded that the government prepare a roadmap guaranteeing that the tribunal and other courts continue trying the pending cases. We also expect this commitment to be included in the election manifestos of all political parties," he told journalists at the International Crimes Tribunal-1.
For all latest news, follow The Daily Star's Google News channel. Responding to questions, the NCP leader said, "After the interim government was formed, our first demand was that this trial process be carried out properly."
"I may be the last witness in Sheikh Hasina's case. After my testimony, the case will proceed to arguments. But this is not the only case. Many others involve mass killings, torture, enforced disappearances and arrests that occurred across the country. These trials will continue for a long time. That is why we have sought a clear roadmap."
He had come to the ICT to testify in the case against Hasina and two of her top aides for crimes against humanity. However, prosecutors said his testimony was deferred as the cross-examination of Mahmudur Rahman, editor of Amar Desh, is still underway.
On the progress of the tribunal, Nahid said, "The trial process is ongoing and moving toward judgment. But proceedings of other cases must also be given due importance. Before the election, the government should coordinate with all political parties and announce an integrated roadmap."
The NCP leader further reiterated the demand for Hasina's repatriation. "The government must, through diplomatic and political efforts, build international public opinion and take steps to bring her [Hasina] back. Once the judgment is delivered, there will be no other option. At that stage, ensuring her punishment will become both a moral and legal duty for any government."
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