Former army chief General (retd) Iqbal Karim Bhuiyan testified at the International Crimes Tribunal-1, expressing his strong opposition to the promotion of Ziaul Ahsan, whom he referred to as a “serial killer” unsuitable for advancement. He disclosed during cross-examination that despite his disapproval, Ziaul was promoted from lieutenant colonel to colonel during Bhuiyan’s tenure as army chief from 2012 to 2015.
Bhuiyan recounted how he confronted the then quartermaster general, Major General Momin, emphasizing his objection to Ziaul’s promotion due to his alleged heinous actions. Despite his protest, the promotion board mostly favored Ziaul, citing him as a “good officer.” Bhuiyan criticized this decision, asserting that Ziaul never demonstrated qualities of a competent officer.
Ziaul is facing allegations of masterminding the enforced disappearance and killing of 104 individuals between 2010 and 2013. Bhuiyan revealed that only one promotion was granted to Ziaul during his term, highlighting irregularities in the promotion process. He pointed out that Ziaul lacked the necessary qualifications and experience for the promotion to colonel, raising concerns about the integrity of the selection process.
Bhuiyan further claimed that Major General Momin was reassigned as Bangladesh’s ambassador to Bahrain shortly after opposing Ziaul’s promotion, suggesting punitive repercussions for dissent. When questioned about his role as a promotion board member, Bhuiyan admitted to complying with government directives despite personal reservations, hinting at external influences within the army hierarchy.
The tribunal session, overseen by Justice Md Golam Mortuza Mozumder and Justice Md Mohitul Haque Enam Chowdhury, adjourned to February 23 for further cross-examination. In a separate development, the trial began against Sajeeb Wazed Joy and Zunaid Ahmed Palak at the ICT-1, with Chief Prosecutor Tajul Islam highlighting their alleged involvement in a violent crackdown on protesters during the 2024 uprising. The prosecution aims to present 32 witnesses to substantiate the charges against the accused.