Why is the Awami League Denouncing Charges Against Hasina’s Son?
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Synopsis
The Awami League has vehemently opposed the arrest warrant against Sajeeb Wazed issued by the ICT, claiming it’s a politically motivated act. They emphasize the importance of protecting the legacy of the Liberation War and stand firm against perceived conspiracies against Bangladesh's sovereignty.
Key Takeaways
- The Awami League denounces the ICT's arrest warrant against Sajeeb Wazed.
- Allegations are considered politically motivated by the party.
- The ICT was created to address war crimes from the 1971 Liberation War.
- Concerns arise about the misuse of judicial power for political aims.
- The situation highlights significant political tensions in Bangladesh.
Dhaka, Dec 5 (NationPress) The Awami League of Bangladesh has strongly criticized the arrest warrant issued by the nation's so-called International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) against Sajeeb Wazed, the son of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. The party noted that many citizens have already dismissed the tribunal as a "kangaroo court".
This response followed reports that the ICT had issued an arrest warrant on Thursday against Sajeeb Wazed, who previously served as the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Advisor to the Prime Minister. This action was taken after formal charges were filed against him concerning alleged crimes against humanity amid protests that erupted during an internet shutdown last July-August.
The Awami League labeled the allegations as “groundless, ludicrous, and politically motivated.” The party emphasized that the ICT was originally established in 1973 to prosecute war criminals linked to the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War, and it should only handle cases of war crimes.
In their statement, the party criticized interim Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus, asserting, “Yunus — a representative of illegal usurpers and anti-liberation forces — is weaponizing this Tribunal for political retribution.”
The Awami League further argued that Yunus is trying to undermine the legacy of Bangabandhu and the principles of the Liberation War, stating that this manipulation is evident to the citizens of Bangladesh.
The party reiterated that an arrest warrant should only be issued when there are credible allegations and preliminary evidence. They asserted that during the violent protests of July-August 2024, Sajeeb Wazed was out of the country, which is a widely recognized fact.
“He remains abroad, and given that the state's apparatus is dominated by militants and terrorists, he cannot realistically present himself in court. This case is purely driven by political motives, and the issuance of an arrest warrant represents a grave violation of human rights,” the party contended.
Additionally, they accused the “killer-fascist and public enemy” Yunus of orchestrating a scheme laden with false and illogical accusations against Sajeeb Wazed as part of an effort to render both Bangladesh and the Awami League leaderless.
In conclusion, the Awami League declared its commitment to resisting any “conspiracy against Bangladesh’s sovereignty, the spirit of the Liberation War, and democratic values.”
Point of View
It’s crucial to recognize the Awami League's stance that frames the arrest warrant against Sajeeb Wazed as a politically charged maneuver. The party's defense underscores a broader concern about the integrity of national institutions and the potential misuse of judicial powers for political ends. The ongoing discourse highlights the tensions within Bangladesh's political arena, inviting scrutiny and dialogue on the implications for democracy and governance.
NationPress
05/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the International Crimes Tribunal?
The International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) was established in Bangladesh in 1973 to prosecute individuals charged with war crimes committed during the 1971 Liberation War.
Why was Sajeeb Wazed issued an arrest warrant?
An arrest warrant was reportedly issued against Sajeeb Wazed concerning alleged crimes against humanity related to protests during an internet shutdown in July-August 2024.
What is the Awami League's position on the arrest warrant?
The Awami League has condemned the arrest warrant, calling it politically motivated and labeling the ICT as a 'kangaroo court.'
Who is Muhammad Yunus?
Muhammad Yunus is the interim Chief Advisor of Bangladesh, whom the Awami League has accused of using the ICT for political retaliation.
What are the implications of this situation for Bangladesh?
This situation reflects ongoing tensions in the political landscape, with potential implications for governance, democracy, and national sovereignty.
