Crimes against humanity: ‘Crimes against humanity’ complaint filed against Bangladesh’s former president

Data map: Former President of Bangladesh Mohammad Shahabuddin (Photo source: ANI)

Dhaka: Days after Mohammad Shahabuddin resigned as Bangladesh President, a complaint was lodged against him on Sunday with Bangladesh’s International Crime Tribunal (ICT) seeking an investigation into his role in “crimes against humanity” committed during the Intifada 2024 against Sheikh Hasina’s government.The charges stem from the same incident in which former Prime Minister Hasina was sentenced to death in absentia.Shahabuddin, a long-time ally of Hasina, was forced to flee Bangladesh due to the uprising. He resigned on Friday, citing health concerns.“The opposition, including the National Civic Party, has raised charges against Shahabuddin. They have every right to do so. But we have found nothing in these charges that warrants our consideration,” Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed said.

However, Law Minister Mohammad Asaduzzaman said Shahabuddin would be investigated on corruption charges.ICT chief prosecutor Md Aminul Islam said his office received two complaints, one from the Bangladesh Liberal Party and the other from the Rastrosonglap Forum.“I haven’t dealt with the complaints,” he said. Al Noor Mohammad Ayyash, central member secretary of the Rastro Sonlap Forum, claimed: “As the then president, Shahabuddin was involved in killings, torture and other criminal acts against students and protesters.”