Tribunal numbers may be increased to expedite July genocide trials: Law Adviser

The number of International Crimes Tribunals may be increased to expedite the trials of the July genocide, said Law Adviser Dr. Asif Nazrul. He made the remark on Tuesday (September 2) around 8:30 am while inspecting renovation work at the main building of Tribunal-2.

Dr. Nazrul said that Tribunal-3 may be formed to complete the July killings trials quickly. The number of tribunals may be increased to accelerate the judicial process. The government is giving top priority to the prosecution of the killings during July–August 2024, and the pace of trials is satisfactory.

He added that if necessary, another tribunal would be set up to expedite trials of enforced disappearances and other crimes against humanity.

It is reported that formal charges have been framed, and witness hearings have started in four cases related to crimes against humanity committed during the July–August movement. Witness examination in the case against Sheikh Hasina is also nearing completion.

These cases are ongoing at Tribunal-1 and Tribunal-2. However, since the main building renovation is not yet complete, Tribunal-2 is currently holding proceedings in a temporary tin-shed facility.

Besides the Law Adviser, officials present during the inspection included Adviser Adilur Rahman Khan from the Ministry of Housing and Public Works, Attorney General Md. Asaduzzaman, Chief Prosecutor of the tribunal Md. Tajul Islam, Prosecutor Gazi M.H. Tamim, and other officials.