Int'l rights body lauds govt for war crimes trial
Human Rights Watch (HRW) has lauded the government’s efforts in bringing those responsible for the 1971 atrocities under trial.
It is an “important and long overdue step” to achieving justice for the victims, the New York-based rights group said in a letter to Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina yesterday.
The HRW also put forward a set of seven suggestions regarding the trial under International Crimes (Tribunals) Act 1973.
“The Bangladesh government has an unprecedented opportunity to hold those responsible for the 1971 atrocities to account in credible trials and, in doing so, to show it is firmly committed to the rule of law,” said Brad Adams, Asia Director of HRW, in the letter.
He said “This is a complicated process with many challenges, including gathering evidence 40 years later and ensuring that the law and rules of procedure meet international standards so the trials are beyond reproach.”
On a recent visit to Bangladesh, members of the human rights watchdog met with Law Minister Shafique Ahmed and Zead Al Malum, prosecutor of the International Crimes Tribunal.
During the visit, both the law minister and tribunal prosecutor said they were committed to ensuring that the tribunal meets international standards. The law minister also welcomed suggestions from HRW and others to improve the process.
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