The International Crimes Tribunal (ICT)-1 today (June 19) appointed senior jurist AY Moshiuzzaman as amicus curiae in a contempt of court case filed against ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and banned Bangladesh Chhatra League (BCL) leader Shakil Akand Bulbul.

The three-member tribunal, led by Justice Md Golam Mortuza Mozumder, also appointed Advocate Aminul Gani Tipu as state defence counsel, said Prosecutor Gazi MH Tamim.

The tribunal took the step as both accused failed to appear before the court despite repeated summons and public notices issued in two national newspapers — Jugantor and New Age — on May 26. 

The hearing has now been adjourned till June 25.

The contempt complaint stems from a telephonic conversation allegedly involving Hasina, where she was reportedly heard claiming to have a license to kill 227 people. 
Based on this, the prosecution filed a petition, and the tribunal initially asked both accused to submit written explanations by May 15.

After their failure to comply, they were summoned to appear in person on May 25. 

Following their continued absence, the tribunal issued newspaper notices asking them to appear on June 3, which they again disregarded.

Prosecutor Gazi MH Tamim said the court appointed an amicus curiae to ensure transparency in the judicial proceedings in light of the accused’s absence.

The tribunal continues to pursue the case in accordance with due legal procedures.

MN/