War crimes convicts from July Uprising cannot contest in polls: Attorney General

Attorney General Md Asaduzzaman has stated that individuals convicted of crimes against humanity in connection with the July coup will not be eligible to participate in the upcoming national elections. The convictions were handed down by the International Crimes Tribunal.

Speaking at a shadow parliament debate titled 'Things to be Done to Implement the Spirit of the July Movement', held at the BFDC auditorium in Tejgaon, Asaduzzaman said that despite political differences, all parties are now united against what he termed the "fascist Awami League."

He also mentioned the possibility of the Awami League being tried as a party under the International Crimes Tribunal Act. "Anyone directly or indirectly affiliated with fascist forces could be held accountable under the law," he added.

Addressing recent incidents of mob violence, he said they stem from public anger over issues such as enforced disappearances and loss of relatives, rather than a lack of trust in the judiciary.

On the issue of the constitution, the Attorney General remarked that while a new constitution could be written, the 1972 constitution reflects the nation's history and sacrifice. He proposed revising it by removing controversial amendments made over the past 15 years.

Regarding the potential lifting of any ban on the Awami League, Asaduzzaman said it is a policy matter for the government, but those supporting banned organizations will also be considered culpable. He noted that the Awami League has lost both political and social legitimacy.

The event also featured remarks from Debate for Democracy Chairman Hasan Ahmed Chowdhury Kiron, who held the Awami League responsible for the July massacre, stating that it occurred with the consent of Sheikh Hasina. He emphasized that the coup demonstrated the people's power and rejection of authoritarianism.

The Attorney General commemorated those killed during the July events, describing them as ordinary citizens who protested against authoritarian rule. He said the core objective of the July movement was to establish justice and good governance.

Students from Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University and Daffodil International University participated in the debate. Judges included Professor Abu Mohammad Rais, Deputy Secretary Rokeya Parveen Jui, Dr SM Morshed, and journalists Hasan Jaben and Ahmed Sarwar Bhuiyan. Trophies, crests, and certificates were awarded to the participating teams.