Bangladesh’s International Crimes Tribunal is investigating the Awami League as a political organization over allegations of crimes against humanity, a process that could lead to a judicial ban if the accusations are proven in court.
The allegations include claims that the party dismantled the country’s democratic system during the last three national elections and that its affiliated organizations, including the Chhatra League and Jubo League, were involved in mass casualties among students and members of the public during the July mass uprising.
Under the provisions governing the tribunal process, a conviction against the Awami League as an organization could result in a court-ordered ban. There is also a provision allowing the confiscation of the party’s movable and immovable properties.
International Crimes Tribunal chief prosecutor Aminul Islam said investigators are examining whether there is sufficient evidence to pursue a case against the party as an organization.
“Whether there will be a trial against Awami League as an organization, our agency is investigating. After the investigation, if primary allegations are found against the Awami League as an organization and the report is submitted to me, as the Chief Prosecutor of the International Crimes Tribunal, I have the opportunity to take necessary actions subject to receiving the report,” Islam said.
Any further legal action would depend on the findings of the investigation and the submission of a report to prosecutors.