The trial of Awami League General Secretary Obaidul Quader and six other party members commenced at the International Crimes Tribunal-2 for their alleged involvement in crimes against humanity during the July 2024 uprising. The prosecution initiated the proceedings by presenting their written statement to the tribunal, followed by the testimony of the first witness, MA Razzak, whose son was killed during the protests in Mirpur-10.
Among the accused are high-ranking party officials such as AFM Bahauddin Nasim, Mohammad Ali Arafat, Sheikh Fazle Shams Parash, Moinul Hossain Khan Nikhil, Saddam Hussain, and Sheikh Wali Asif Enan. The prosecution claims that these individuals incited violence against protesters and civilians, purportedly acting under the directives of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. They are also accused of supporting the government’s repressive measures, including imposing a nationwide curfew and using excessive force to suppress the peaceful demonstrations.
Chief Prosecutor Tajul Islam likened Sheikh Hasina to historical autocrats and fascists, emphasizing the significance of the trial as a message for the nation. In a separate case, JSD President Hasanul Haq Inu faced charges of crimes against humanity before the same tribunal. However, the defense team failed to produce three scheduled witnesses, prompting a request for alternative witnesses, which the tribunal partially granted, setting the next hearing for February 22.