Bangladesh Tribunal Denies Sheikh Hasina’s Request for New Legal Representation
Dhaka, Aug 12 – In a move that has stirred controversy in Bangladesh’s political and legal circles, the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) on Tuesday rejected a request from senior Supreme Court lawyer Z.I. Khan Panna to represent former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in an ongoing crimes against humanity trial.
The case, which stems from violent demonstrations in July last year, has been described by Awami League leaders and political analysts as politically motivated.
Tribunal Cites Procedural Timing
The application to include Panna on Hasina’s defense team was filed by lawyer Nazneen Nahar at the ICT. However, the tribunal dismissed the petition, stating that the case was already at the testimony stage and a new lawyer could not be added.
“The train has already left the station; there is no way to board it by informing the station master. At this stage of the case, there is no opportunity to appoint a new lawyer,” the tribunal said, as reported by The Business Standard.
The ICT noted that the state had already appointed Supreme Court lawyer Amir Hossain to represent Hasina in the proceedings.
Case Background
On August 3, the prosecution began its case against Hasina and two co-accused — former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal and ex–Inspector General of Police (IGP) Chowdhury Abdullah Al Mamun.
The charges allege crimes against humanity during the unrest that gripped Bangladesh in July 2024. Details of the allegations remain limited, but they reportedly involve actions taken to quell violent protests.
Awami League Denounces Charges
The Awami League has rejected the case outright, accusing the Muhammad Yunus-led interim government of orchestrating the trial to suppress political opposition.
Awami League leader Mohammad A. Arafat criticized the move, saying:
“This is part of a broader campaign by an unelected usurper heading an illegitimate government, intent on erasing democratic legitimacy, silencing opposition, and clinging to power.”
Arafat further argued that no elected leader should be prosecuted for “upholding constitutional duties in the face of violent insurrection,” and insisted that only Parliament, not an interim administration, holds the authority to amend legislation.
Political & Legal Implications
Observers say the tribunal’s decision raises questions about due process and Hasina’s right to choose her own legal defense. The rejection of Panna’s application may fuel perceptions that the case is politically charged, particularly given Bangladesh’s turbulent political climate and history of contentious trials against former leaders.
Legal analysts warn that denying a high-profile defendant the lawyer of their choice at a critical trial stage could undermine public trust in the judiciary — especially when the defendant is a former head of government with strong political backing.
Final Thoughts – TheTrendingPeople.com
The ICT’s refusal to allow a new defense lawyer for Sheikh Hasina is likely to intensify Bangladesh’s already heated political standoff. Supporters frame it as an attack on democratic legitimacy, while critics of Hasina see it as a legal necessity to keep the trial on track. The outcome of this case could have far-reaching consequences for Bangladesh’s political future — and its fragile democratic institutions.