Has Bangladesh's Former IGP Been Coerced to Testify Against Hasina?
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Synopsis
In a shocking turn of events, former IGP Chowdhury Abdullah Al Mamun has appeared as a witness against Sheikh Hasina in a case involving alleged crimes against humanity. This article delves into the ramifications of his testimony and the political turbulence surrounding Bangladesh's leadership.
Key Takeaways
- Chowdhury Abdullah Al Mamun testifies against Sheikh Hasina.
- The case involves allegations of crimes against humanity.
- The Awami League condemns the tribunal's actions.
- The developments reflect ongoing political tensions in Bangladesh.
- Questions of judicial impartiality are raised.
Dhaka, Aug 20 (NationPress) The former Inspector General of Police (IGP) of Bangladesh, Chowdhury Abdullah Al Mamun, was presented before the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) on Wednesday in relation to a case against him for purported crimes against humanity during protests in July of the previous year, as reported by local media.
He was escorted from prison to the tribunal on Wednesday morning to provide testimony against former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal in the ongoing case.
A three-member bench of the ICT, headed by Tribunal-1 Chairman Justice Golam Mortuza Majumder, is also scheduled to document the 13th testimony against Hasina and the other two accused, according to Bangladesh's prominent Bengali daily Jugantor.
Last month, reports indicated that the ICT had filed charges against three individuals, including Hasina and Kamal, regarding the alleged “crimes against humanity” that occurred during the protests in July of last year. The other accused, former IGP Al Mamun, is said to have become a state witness for the prosecution in this case.
In light of these developments, the Awami League Party of Bangladesh denounced the “inhuman torture and coercion” allegedly employed to compel Mamun to testify against Hasina and others in a “false and farcical case” at the country's “so-called ICT.”
“This is part of a malicious effort to unjustly convict the daughter of Bangabandhu, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, based on fabricated and unfounded accusations. The Awami League vehemently condemns and expresses its utter dismay at this vile incident,” the party stated in a release last month.
Meanwhile, a court in Dhaka on Wednesday has placed former acting Mayor of Gazipur City Corporation, Asadur Rahman Kiron, on a three-day remand concerning charges of the alleged attempted murder of businessman Ishtiaq Mahmud during the protests last July.
The court has also instructed that former mayor of Dhaka North City Corporation, Atiqul Islam, be recorded as arrested in the same case.
Dhaka Metropolitan Magistrate M Mizbah Ur Rahman issued this order following a hearing where the investigation officer, Sub-Inspector Md Nazmul Sakib of Uttara East Police Station, requested a seven-day remand for Kiron and also sought to show Atiqul as arrested.
These recent occurrences unfold amid a persistent crackdown on leaders of the Awami League and associated officials under the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus.
Analysts view these developments as a significant political vendetta orchestrated by the Yunus administration, as several cases were filed against former Prime Minister Hasina, her party members, and officials during her tenure on dubious grounds immediately following her ousting in August 2024.
Point of View
Our perspective remains aligned with the principles of integrity and fairness. The events surrounding the testimony of Chowdhury Abdullah Al Mamun against Sheikh Hasina highlight deep-rooted political tensions in Bangladesh. While the judiciary's independence is crucial, the context of these developments raises questions about their impartiality and the motivations behind them. We advocate for transparency and justice above all.
NationPress
08/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the basis of the case against Chowdhury Abdullah Al Mamun?
The case against Chowdhury Abdullah Al Mamun is centered around alleged crimes against humanity during protests in July of last year.
Why has the Awami League condemned the tribunal's actions?
The Awami League has condemned the actions of the tribunal, claiming that Mamun was coerced into becoming a state witness against Sheikh Hasina and others in a fabricated case.
What political context surrounds this case?
The case is viewed by analysts as part of a broader political vendetta targeting members of the Awami League under the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus.
