Citizen Initiative expresses deep concern over the recent decision of the International Crimes Tribunal to formally accept charges of crimes against humanity, including enforced disappearances, abductions, secret detention, torture, and extrajudicial killings, and to issue arrest warrants against Ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, her defense advisor, and 30 other military and civilian officials.
We regard this development as a historic step toward ending Bangladesh’s long-standing culture of impunity and moving forward on the path of justice. Any delay or compromise in bringing to trial those responsible for state-sponsored atrocities would be self-destructive for the nation.
As part of Bangladesh’s conscious civic community, Citizen Initiative presents the following positions and demands to ensure justice:
1. Immediate arrest and submission before the Tribunal:
In accordance with the order of the International Crimes Tribunal, all individuals with outstanding arrest warrants must be apprehended and presented before the court without delay. Law enforcement agencies must carry out this responsibility with utmost transparency and accountability.
2. No “safe exit” for any perpetrator:
No member of state security forces or political institutions involved in crimes against humanity should be offered protection or allowed to escape. The Bangladesh Armed Forces remain one of the nation’s most respected institutions; the best way to preserve their honor is to bring guilty officers before justice, not to shield or let them flee.
3. International pursuit of fugitives:
For those accused who have fled the country or are attempting to do so, the government must issue Interpol Red Notices, engage in necessary diplomatic efforts, and ensure full cooperation with the International Crimes Tribunal to facilitate their arrest.
4. Protection of victims and witnesses:
Families of the disappeared, torture victims, and witnesses must be guaranteed state protection, legal assistance, and freedom to testify without intimidation. The justice process must be conducted above fear and political influence.
Citizen Initiative believes that the people of Bangladesh seek justice, not revenge.
The spirit of democracy, human rights, and justice should form the foundation of a new Bangladesh emerging after the events of July.
Sincerely,
Tayib Ahmed
Secretary, Citizen Initiative
PhD Candidate & Instructor, Colorado State University
Dr. Hasan Mahmud
Chairman, Citizen Initiative
Assistant Professor, Northwestern University in Qatar
