No War in Bangladesh in July-August 2024, Only Political Vengeance – Government’s Legal Counsel
[Dhaka | July 7, 2025]
In a case filed over alleged crimes against humanity stemming from the violence during July-August 2024, state-appointed attorney Amir Hossain has requested that the charges against former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal, and former Inspector General of Police Chowdhury Abdullah Al-Mamun be dismissed.
During Monday’s hearing at International Crimes Tribunal-1, Mr. Hossain argued, “There was no war in the country during July-August 2024. What occurred was political conflict, violence, and revenge. If there was no war, then charges of war crimes or crimes against humanity cannot be applied. Therefore, the allegations against Sheikh Hasina should be dismissed.”
He further added, “This tribunal was established under the 1973 Act, designed to prosecute crimes against humanity committed during the 1971 Liberation War. Hence, it is legally unsound to interpret recent political violence as war crimes.”
Prosecution Opposes: A “Flat Denial”
Chief Prosecutor Tazul Islam rejected this line of defense as a “flat denial,” stating, “Whether the charges brought against the accused are true or not will be determined after the formation of charges and commencement of trial. There is no scope for dismissal of the case at this stage.”
He urged the tribunal to proceed with the framing of charges against Sheikh Hasina and the other accused.
At the end of the hearing, the three-member tribunal headed by Justice Golam Mortuza Mojumdar announced that a decision regarding the formation of charges would be delivered on July 10.
Defense Claims: "Politically Motivated Case"
In defense of Sheikh Hasina, lawyer Amir Hossain said, “The allegations against her are politically motivated. During her tenure as Prime Minister, she made significant contributions to national development — Padma Bridge, Metro Rail, and Karnaphuli Tunnel stand as proof.”
He alleged, “This case was filed out of political jealousy, and her remarks have been misrepresented.”
He also said, “She never called the protestors ‘offspring of collaborators’ but repeatedly advocated for a peaceful solution.”
Mr. Hossain added, “The incidents took place between July 14 and August 5 at 2:30 PM. During that period, she was not even in Bangladesh. Therefore, the allegations numbered 4 and 5 are not applicable to her.”
Prosecution’s Post-Hearing Remarks
At a press briefing after the court session, the prosecution said that the truth of the charges will only be determined once formal trial proceedings begin.
Prosecutor Gazi M.H. Tamim stated, “Everything will be resolved during the trial. The formal proceedings have not yet started. The trial begins with the framing of charges.”
“Unless charges are framed, how can one determine whether our accusations or their defenses are true? If the charges turn out to be false, they will be acquitted,” Mr. Tamim concluded. ✍️ Report Prepared By: Fozla Rabbi Robna
