News Flash
DHAKA, May 12, 2025 (BSS) - Chief Prosecutor of the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) Muhammad Tajul Islam today said that decision regarding whether any political party will be investigated or prosecuted under the newly amended tribunal ordinance will be made in the future.
Speaking at a press briefing following the submission of an investigation report in a crimes against humanity and genocide case against ousted prime minister Sheikh Hasina and two others, Tajul said the recent amendment to the ICT ordinance lays out the legal framework for holding political parties or organizations accountable if found involved in such crimes.
"The amended ordinance, issued on May 10, specifies the process for bringing political parties under justice and the possible punishments. Now, we will decide in the future whether any political party should be investigated or brought to trial," he said.
He further clarified that the decision to initiate any probe would be based on the findings and recommendations of the tribunal's investigation agency.
"If the agency thinks a certain party was involved in crimes against humanity, the investigation will proceed according to the law," Tajul added.
The government recently issued the International Crimes (Tribunals) (Second Amendment) Ordinance, 2025, incorporating provisions to prosecute and penalize political parties, affiliated bodies or any group of individuals for crimes under the tribunal's jurisdiction.
The ordinance, which took effect immediately upon issuance, introduced a new clause (bbb) following clause (bb) of section 2 of the International Crimes (Tribunals) Act, 1973, according to a gazette notification from the Legislative and Parliamentary Affairs Division on Saturday.
