Chief Controversy: ICT Chief Prosecutor Tajul Islam Reportedly to be Replaced

Online reports have suggested that Advocate Tajul Islam, the current Chief Prosecutor of the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT), may be replaced. British investigative journalist David Bergman revealed that Advocate Aminul Islam has been named as the prospective new Chief Prosecutor. Aminul Islam previously served as a member of the legal team in corruption cases against Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Chairperson and former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia, in which he also served a prison sentence.

On Sunday, February 22, at 11:00 pm, Bergman posted this information on his social media account as “breaking news.”

In his post, Bergman wrote that the Bangladesh government has decided to appoint a new Chief Prosecutor at the ICT, removing Tajul Islam from the position. It is understood that Advocate Aminul Islam is being considered for the role. He had earlier been part of the legal team representing Khaleda Zia in her corruption cases, which led to his incarceration.

A source confirmed that Tajul Islam has been informally notified of his potential replacement. When approached for comment, Tajul Islam declined to respond. Attempts to obtain statements from government spokespeople were unsuccessful.

The ICT is currently handling trials against Awami League politicians and law enforcement officials accused of committing crimes against humanity. Allegations include the killing and injuring of protesters and pedestrians during the July 2024 demonstrations, which contributed to political instability against Sheikh Hasina’s government. The tribunal is also managing cases related to enforced disappearances between 2009 and 2024. So far, three trials have been completed.

Three days ago, Tajul Islam had told journalists that he had not received any indication that the new government intended to replace him or other members of the prosecution team.

A similar report was published by the fact-check portal The Descent. The portal noted that earlier on Sunday, Law Minister Mohammad Asaduzzaman called Tajul Islam to his office, informing him of the government’s interest at higher levels in appointing a new Chief Prosecutor.

Sources further indicated that an official notification regarding the appointment may be issued on Monday.

Since then, the issue has become the talk of online platforms.

DBTech/DHE/EK/OR