ICT to start preliminary probe into Awami League

The International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) is set to launch a preliminary investigation into the Awami League (AL) over allegations of crimes against humanity, Chief Prosecutor Mohammad Tajul Islam said on Sunday.

Speaking to reporters after the proceedings of International Crimes Tribunal-2, Tajul Islam confirmed that the tribunal has received a complaint from the Nationalist Democratic Movement (NDM), which accused the Awami League of committing crimes as an organization. “We are examining the allegations with due importance,” he said.

Earlier, Law Adviser Asif Nazrul had commented at an event in Barishal, stating, “When the activities of a political party are banned, questions arise whether the ban is temporary or permanent. I do not see any possibility of the ban on the Awami League being lifted – not before the election, nor in the foreseeable future.”

Responding to the adviser’s remarks, Tajul Islam said, “A primary investigation is going to begin soon to determine whether the Awami League can be held accountable as a criminal organization.”

The development marks a significant step in the ongoing scrutiny of political parties in Bangladesh for historical crimes.