Over 100 journalists have raised alarm over alleged bias, political pressure, and lack of transparency in the International Crimes Tribunal’s trial process. Their joint statement demands an impartila retrial, judicial independence, and full adherence to due legal procedures.
A collective group of 102 journalists from diverse media organisations has voiced strong concern over what they describe as a deeply flawed, biased, and opaque trial process at the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT). In a detailed joint statement issued on Monday, the journalists warned that the current situation poses a serious threat to the rule of law, democratic principles, and the integrity of the country’s judicial system.
According to the statement, recent developments surrounding the ICT—including remarks from political actors, inconsistencies in the trial proceedings, and visible political pressure—have created widespread suspicion regarding the court’s impartiality. The journalists said that transparency, independence, and neutrality are the pillars of any judicial institution, and when these come under question, the entire justice system becomes vulnerable.
They noted that the situation has sparked growing national and international debate, particularly regarding the ICT verdict against Awami League President Sheikh Hasina. Critics argue that the legal process has been overshadowed by political influence, creating doubts about whether justice has been served or compromised.
The journalists highlighted several specific concerns. Among them is the alleged pressure exerted on the court, which they described as highly unusual and unacceptable in any fair judicial process. They pointed to claims that one-sided information was presented during the hearings and that the accused were allegedly barred from appointing their own lawyers, undermining their right to a proper defence.
The statement further criticizes the government’s decision to appoint a lawyer who was reportedly aligned with the opposing political stance to represent Hasina, calling it “absurd” and a clear violation of the principles of natural justice. Such actions, they argued, weaken confidence not only in this trial but also in the broader judicial framework of the country.
Another major concern raised was the reported intimidation faced by defence lawyers, who were allegedly confronted by hostile groups during the trial period. The journalists stressed that any environment where lawyers feel threatened prevents the proper functioning of the justice system and leads to outcomes shaped by fear rather than evidence.
They emphasized that justice must be transparent, pressure-free, and strictly based on law. In their view, these essential elements were missing from the proceedings in question. “When verdicts appear influenced or predetermined, public trust in the judiciary collapses,” the statement said, underscoring the media’s responsibility to speak up against threats to judicial independence.
The journalists reiterated that independent media plays a crucial role in preserving truth, demanding accountability, and defending democratic values. When verdicts are dictated, politically influenced, or perceived as vindictive, they said, it damages the nation’s credibility and weakens citizens’ faith in state institutions.
In their statement, the journalists outlined four key demands aimed at restoring trust in the ICT and ensuring justice is administered without fear or influence:
-
Overturn the disputed verdict and conduct a fully transparent and impartial retrial.
-
Ensure the court is completely free from political, administrative, or external pressure.
-
Allow equal opportunity for all parties to appoint lawyers and present evidence.
-
Guarantee that verdicts rely solely on truth, verified facts, and legal standards.
The journalists concluded by reaffirming their unity in defending democracy, press freedom, judicial independence, and the rule of law. They warned that if justice becomes compromised, the consequences could be severe for the nation’s stability and governance. “Justice is the foundation of the state,” they said, adding that its absence invites “grave and irreversible consequences.”
| Also Read: HRW Flags major Fair-Trial Breaches in Hasina Death Sentence |
Their statement has added to a growing wave of scrutiny and public discourse surrounding the ICT’s recent proceedings, with observers now closely watching how the authorities respond to the mounting concerns and calls for reform.
