London, UK — A group of UK-based Bangladeshi progressive journalists has issued a joint statement strongly condemning the International Crimes Tribunal’s (ICT) recent verdict against Bangladesh’s Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. The journalists expressed “deep concern” over what they described as a politically motivated judgment delivered in absentia, raising questions about its legality and transparency.
The statement, endorsed by dozens of Bangladeshi-origin journalists working in the UK’s print, electronic, and online media, claims the verdict has created “shock and frustration” among expatriate Bangladeshis and the global rights community.
Allegations of Political Retaliation
The journalists argue that the charges brought against Sheikh Hasina — accusing her of involvement in human rights violations — are based on “illusory narratives” crafted by the current political establishment in Bangladesh. They state that the verdict not only undermines judicial integrity but also threatens the country’s democratic environment.
Referring to reactions from international human rights watchdogs, the statement highlighted that Human Rights Watch (HRW) and the UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) expressed reservations over the fairness of the trial, calling it an “in absentia political prosecution lacking due process.”
Concerns Over Rule of Law and Judicial Abuse
According to the journalists, the verdict represents a serious erosion of the rule of law in Bangladesh. They warn that such politically driven legal actions could further destabilize Bangladesh’s already fragile political and social landscape.
They noted that the trial’s “lack of transparency” and “political bias” undermines the credibility of Bangladesh’s judicial system and contradicts globally accepted legal standards.
Call for Global Support to Protect Democratic Rights
The group urged the international community—including global media, rights organizations, and diplomatic actors—to closely monitor the situation in Bangladesh. They emphasized that democratic values and human rights must be protected from political exploitation.
They asserted that any verdict passed without ensuring full legal rights and defense representation “will not stand the test of fair justice.”
Endorsers of the Statement
More than 50 journalists, researchers, editors, broadcasters, and writers signed the joint statement. The signatories include senior correspondents from London-based media outlets, Bangladeshi community media, television channels, and digital platforms.
They collectively reaffirmed their commitment to “standing against judicial oppression” and supporting democratic freedoms in Bangladesh.
