Former Presidents Accused of Silence as Serious Crimes Occurred
Legal complaints were filed against former presidents Mohammed Shahabuddin and M Abdul Hamid. They went to the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) Chief Prosecutor. Two groups, Bangladesh Azadi Party and Rashtra Sanglap Forum, submitted them Sunday.
The Azadi Party complained against both presidents. Lieutenant Colonel (retired) Md Hasinur Rahman spoke for the party. He claimed the presidents stayed silent. Many people died or disappeared until August 5. He said this silence meant they approved these crimes.
Munshi Borhan Mahmud, Azadi Party’s Chief Organiser, listed specific events. These included the Pilkhana carnage and Shapla crackdown. Judicial killings, disappearances, and murders also happened. “Aynaghar” detention facilities were mentioned. This happened while they were Head of State.
Mr. Mahmud claimed the former presidents supported the government. They gave it political legitimacy. They did not protest against alleged abuses. He said they benefited from their state positions. He argued they cannot avoid responsibility.
The Rashtra Sanglap Forum complained only against former President Mohammed Shahabuddin. Al Noor Mohammad Ayas, from the forum, submitted it. He alleged he was taken against his will. This happened from Mohakhali Bus Terminal last January 18.
Mr. Ayas was traveling after protesting for Mr. Shahabuddin’s resignation. He said he was left in Banglamotor the next day. The complaint called Mr. Shahabuddin a “close associate” of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.
The forum asked for an investigation into Mr. Shahabuddin’s role. This includes his alleged part in the July mass uprising. It covers encouraging the shooting of protesters and civilians. It also mentioned torture, killings, and disappearances.
The complaint urged an independent investigation. It would check Mr. Shahabuddin’s legal responsibility. It would also examine his involvement in the 2024 general election. Also, human rights violations and July uprising events.
Chief Prosecutor Md Aminul Islam declined to comment. He was asked about the complaints during a media briefing.
