Mahmudur Rahman, Nahid Islam to testify against Sheikh Hasina

The International Crimes Tribunal has scheduled Mahmudur Rahman, editor of the daily Amar Desh, and Nahid Islam, convener of the National Citizen Party (NCP), to testify against former Sheikh Hasina and former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal on September 15. The case involves allegations of crimes against humanity.

Prosecutor Gazi MH Tamim announced at a tribunal briefing on Wednesday that both witnesses were originally set to testify today. However, due to personal reasons, they requested a postponement, which the tribunal approved.

So far, the tribunal has recorded testimonies from 45 witnesses. On September 9, six witnesses testified, and on September 8, three others appeared. The testimonies detail horrific killings during the July-August 2024 uprising.

Among the notable witnesses is former Inspector General of Police Chowdhury Abdullah Al-Mamun, who testified on September 2 after shifting from accused to prosecution witness. He admitted that genocide took place under the orders of Sheikh Hasina and Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal and apologized for his role.

Families of victims and eyewitnesses have held Sheikh Hasina, Kamal, and others responsible and are demanding strict punishment.

The tribunal formally framed charges against Sheikh Hasina, Kamal, and Mamun on July 10, with the prosecution presenting five counts of crimes against humanity. Witness testimonies and cross-examinations have been ongoing since August 3.