Why is the Chief Prosecutor of Bangladesh's ICT Threatening Defence Lawyers?
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Synopsis
In a shocking display of misconduct, Bangladesh's Chief Prosecutor Tajul Islam has issued threats to a defence lawyer during an enforced disappearance case. Justice Makers Bangladesh in France has condemned these actions, calling for immediate accountability and highlighting the threats to judicial integrity and human rights in the country.
Key Takeaways
- Threats to defence lawyers undermine judicial integrity.
- Immediate action is needed against Tajul Islam.
- International law protects legal proceedings from intimidation.
- The involvement of unauthorized individuals in interrogations is unacceptable.
- Human rights organizations play a crucial role in advocating for justice.
Paris, Nov 26 (NationPress) A prominent global human rights organization has raised serious concerns over the alarming threats made by Chief Prosecutor Tajul Islam of Bangladesh’s International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) against the defence attorney of an accused individual during a critical session concerning enforced disappearance cases.
Justice Makers Bangladesh in France (JMBF) has demanded the immediate removal of Tajul Islam from his role, the annulment of his lawyer's license by the Bar Council, and stringent punitive measures following a comprehensive investigation by an impartial committee of international human rights professionals.
According to multiple verified newspaper articles and sources, during the hearing on November 23, Major General (Retd.) Ziaul Ahsan’s defence lawyer, Naznin Nahar, faced intimidation in court when Tajul reportedly stated, “Be quiet. Do not speak. You could also become an accused. We are receiving complaints against you from multiple sources.”
The rights organization expressed its alarm, highlighting that such threats not only intimidate defence attorneys but also compromise the integrity of the court, transparency in the judicial process, and fundamental human rights in Bangladesh.
“Under international human rights and procedural law, both the accused and their legal representatives must be able to engage in legal proceedings in a safe and independent environment, devoid of intimidation. Chief Prosecutor Tajul Islam’s threats violated this principle, fostering a coercive atmosphere and exerting unlawful influence over the judicial proceedings, which starkly contravenes the principles of justice,” JMBF declared.
Furthermore, JMBF underscored that during the interrogation of Major General (Retd.) Ziaul Ahsan, Nabila Idris, an individual with no affiliation to the prosecution team and a member of the Commission on Enforced Disappearances, reportedly warned that if the accused failed to respond to questions as expected, his daughter would be left an orphan. This is seen as a blatant attempt to exert psychological pressure, completely unacceptable in a fair and independent judicial system.
JMBF asserted that the threats posed by the Chief Prosecutor, the involvement of an unauthorized person in the interrogation, and the intimidation of the accused’s child are clear violations of the Constitution of Bangladesh, the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), and established international legal standards.
Point of View
I believe that the integrity of our judicial system must be upheld at all costs. The threats issued by Chief Prosecutor Tajul Islam are alarming and require urgent action. It is vital for the legal community and human rights advocates to rally together in defense of due process and the right to a fair trial.
NationPress
27/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the condemnation of the Chief Prosecutor?
The condemnation arose from threats made by Chief Prosecutor Tajul Islam against a defence lawyer during a hearing, which undermines the integrity of the judicial process.
What actions have been called for in response to the threats?
Justice Makers Bangladesh in France has called for Tajul Islam's dismissal, revocation of his lawyer's license, and thorough investigation by human rights experts.
What are the implications of these threats on the judicial system?
Such threats can create a coercive environment that undermines the independence of legal proceedings and the fundamental rights of the accused and their lawyers.
How does international law view such actions?
International law mandates that both the accused and their attorneys should be able to conduct legal proceedings safely and without intimidation.
What is the role of the Bar Council in this matter?
The Bar Council is responsible for regulating the conduct of lawyers and can revoke licenses if a lawyer is found to have violated professional standards.
