Trial against Sheikh Hasina part of a political conflict: Lawyer

Report by Ahsan Tasnim

DHAKA: The charge of " crimes against humanity " is inapplicable to former Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina as the cases she is being tried for are part of a political conflict and not a war, her state-appointed lawyer argued on Monday in the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT), which has set July 10 for framing charges against her and two of her close aides.

Stating that according to the International Crimes (Tribunals) Act, 1973, only acts committed during war can be prosecuted as "crimes against humanity", Hasina's counsel Amir Hossain sought exemption for the Awami League politician, who is being tried in absentia. Hossain is also representing former home minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal and former inspector general of police Chowdhury Abdullah al Mamun in the case.

"The events stemmed from political change, violence and revenge," Hossain told the ICT, which was formed after the 1971 war to try those accused of war crimes. "Since no war occurred, the charges based on war crimes and crimes against humanity are inapplicable," he said. Rejecting the arguments, chief prosecutor Tajul Islam said allegations' merits will be assessed during formal trial once ICT decides on framing charges. "I sought discharge from all allegations... as they appear politically motivated," Hossain told reporters, adding he has not been able to contact Hasina directly.