Road, Transport and Bridges Minister Obaidul Quader today said that the war crimes trial would continue even if Jamaat-e-Islami seeks apology for its crimes against humanity during the Liberation War of Bangladesh in 1971.

Quader, also general secretary of ruling Awami League, came up with the remarks while talking to reporters at the political office of the party at Dhanmondi in Dhaka.

“It’s not clear yet why the matter of seeking mercy by Jamaat has appeared after 47 years of independence. It might be their political strategy. However, they have not said anything officially yet over the matter. Even if they seek mercy, the trial of war criminals which is underway would not be stopped,” said Quader.

Responding to another question, he said, “What would be the big difference if Jamaat changes its name...it is like old wine in new bottle. It is all the same if there remains the same old ideology in the new name.”