Individuals convicted by the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) will be permanently barred from contesting any future elections in Bangladesh, Attorney General Md Asaduzzaman stated on Saturday.
Speaking at a public program in Dhaka, Asaduzzaman pointed to the country’s constitutional and legal framework, saying it clearly disqualifies such individuals from holding or seeking public office.
“There will be no scope for the individuals convicted by the tribunal to take part in any election,” he said.
“It is clearly outlined in the constitution and existing legal framework.”
Governance Linked to Public Engagement
Asaduzzaman emphasized that good governance requires active engagement from the public.
“Ensuring good governance in the country will be difficult without the active and mindful participation of all citizens in government activities,” he said.
He also commented on the rise in mob violence, saying such incidents reflect deeper issues related to the absence of rule of law.
“We cannot control this kind of situation unless the rule of law is re-established,” he noted.
Aftermath of Mass Uprising
The attorney general’s remarks come in the wake of major political changes that followed last year’s student-led July–August uprising. Former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina left the country on August 5 after the protests escalated.
Since then, the interim government has detained several top Awami League leaders. These individuals are currently facing prosecution under the ICT on charges tied to corruption and abuse of power.
Asaduzzaman didn’t mince words: if you’re convicted by the tribunal, you’re finished in politics. “The law is clear,” he said, “they will lose their eligibility to participate in any election.”
In the end, he tied it all back to last year’s uprising, saying that bringing back good governance is about making sure that whole movement wasn’t for nothing.
“It is crucial at this moment,” he said.
