Most July genocide masterminds to be tried by December: Chief Prosecutor

The Chief Prosecutor of the International Crimes Tribunal, Mohammad Tajul Islam, announced on Tuesday that the trials of most accused masterminds of the July genocide will be completed by December.

Speaking at a discussion and documentary screening held at the Judicial Administration Training Institute, organized by the Ministry of Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs, Tajul Islam emphasized the need to balance victims’ demands for justice with legal procedures and defendants’ rights.

“We have taken the necessary time to ensure a fair trial. However, this does not mean the process will drag on for years,” he said. “The trial of top commanders will largely be completed by December.”

Addressing public concerns over trial delays, he said genocide cases are complex and cannot be expedited like other court cases. “The tribunal follows strict procedures that take time,” he explained.

The tribunal took charge in September, with full court operations beginning in November. Despite initial delays, the investigation agency submitted the first report within six months.

Currently, trials of four cases are ongoing, with open hearings and live broadcasts of some sessions. The first witness in the case against Sheikh Hasina is scheduled to appear on August 3.

The event began with a minute of silence for those killed in the July movement and the recent Milestone School plane crash, followed by prayers led by Ruhul Amin, Joint Secretary of the Law and Justice Division.

Attendees included government advisors, journalists, and relatives of July movement martyrs.