Bangladesh has enacted an ordinance amending the International Crimes (Tribunals) Act, 1973, disqualifying any individual formally charged with crimes against humanity from holding or contesting public office.

Issued on 6 October, the ordinance introduces Section 20(c) to the existing legislation. 

Under this new provision, individuals facing formal charges before the International Crimes Tribunal will be barred from becoming or remaining a Member of Parliament, local government representative, commissioner, chairman, mayor, administrator, or from holding any government post.

The amendment follows a decision made on 4 September during a meeting chaired by Professor Muhammad Yunus, head of the interim government. Following the meeting, Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam announced the ordinance, which aligns with Section 9(1) of the Act and aims to prevent accused individuals from participating in public institutions until their legal status is resolved.

According to government sources, formal charges have already been submitted against several high-profile figures. These include ousted fugitive former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal, and a number of senior government officials and police officers, whose trials are ongoing.

Additionally, charges have been formally filed against Jatiya Samajtantrik Dal President Hasanul Haq Inu and Awami League Joint General Secretary Mahbubul Alam Hanif, among others.

SMS/