The Bangladesh Awami League has announced in a statement that it rejects the verdict issued by the so-called International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) on Monday. The party has alleged that the tribunal was “illegally constituted” and described its verdict as “farcical.”
The statement said that the verdict brings charges against Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and others, which, according to the party, are “contrary to the laws and judicial system of Bangladesh.” The Awami League believes that the verdict was issued as part of a “pre-planned effort” to take revenge on those involved in the trials of war criminals.
The party further claimed that the verdict was the result of a “joint effort” by anti-independence and anti-national elements, which, in their view, represents “an attempt to undermine Bangladesh inspired by the spirit of the Liberation War.”
Announced Program of Protests
In protest of the verdict, the Awami League has declared nationwide programs:
18 November: Total shutdown across the country
19–21 November: Nationwide demonstrations, protests, and resistance programs
The party stated that it “vehemently rejects” the verdict and expressed confidence that the people of the country will also refuse to accept it.
