Nahid Islam, convener of the National Citizens’ Party (NCP), has said the Awami League should be brought under trial as a party and held accountable through judicial proceedings.
Speaking to reporters at a press briefing on the premises of the International Crimes Tribunal on Sunday (21 September), Nahid made the remarks while testifying as the 47th witness.
He was cross-examined by state-appointed lawyer Md Amir Hossain, who represents former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal.
“Banning the Awami League through an executive order is not a permanent solution,” Nahid said. “Their political activities have only been temporarily restricted. They must be legally prosecuted and banned as a party through trial. Temporary measures will not suffice. The collaborators of fascism must also face justice.”
He added that his party would file a petition with the tribunal, saying sufficient evidence had already been presented to the court.
“Sheikh Hasina decided to kill people to maintain her absolute power. The people resisted and overthrew her. Politically, these are crimes committed by the Awami League as a party. They should be brought under trial quickly,” Nahid said.
He further remarked that the crimes against humanity committed during the July–August movement last year “will be written into world history.”
