Nahid Islam Seeks Trial of Awami League as a Party

Nahid Islam, convener of the National Citizen Party and a leading coordinator of Students Against Discrimination, has demanded that the Awami League be prosecuted as an organization.

Speaking to the press after giving his deposition and facing cross-examination before International Crimes Tribunal-1 today, Nahid argued that the ruling party collectively bore responsibility for the violent suppression during the July uprising, which ultimately resulted in Sheikh Hasina’s removal from power.

> “The Awami League should face trial as a political party. We will soon submit a petition to the tribunal. Adequate evidence has already been placed before the court. Sheikh Hasina, as party chief, chose to unleash violence on the people to hold on to power — and the nation resisted, forcing her downfall. Politically, that crime belongs to the Awami League as a party,” Nahid told reporters.

Chief Prosecutor Tajul Islam also acknowledged that the legal framework allows for such a move, saying political parties can be brought under trial.

> “The law permits prosecution of a political organization. If a formal complaint is lodged with us, it becomes easier to proceed. The testimonies and evidence presented in court point to the involvement of the Awami League and its wings — Jubo League, Chhatra League, Swechchhasebak League — along with the 14-party alliance. We will therefore examine the issue, including the possibility of banning the party,” Tajul said.

He further added that petitions from families of victims would strengthen the case:

> “If victims’ relatives come forward with demands for party-level accountability, it will give us a stronger legal footing.”

Nahid appeared before the tribunal as the 47th witness. The three-member bench, chaired by Justice Md Golam Mortuza Mozumder, completed his cross-examination today.