slam described the purported letter as “completely fake” and “immature,” noting that it was improperly addressed to “Dear ICT” rather than a judge.
Corut Reporter : The International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) Chief Prosecutor, Md Aminul Islam, stated on April 2, 2024, that the tribunal has not received any official letter from ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina or any organization representing her. His remarks were a direct response to media reports and social media rumors claiming that the London-based law firm Kingsley Napley had sent a letter on her behalf to contest her death sentence. The Chief Prosecutor made the remarks to journalists at the tribunal’s office on Thursday afternoon.
No Official Receipt: The prosecution learned about the alleged letter only through media reports and a copy sent via WhatsApp by a journalist.
Status of the Letter: Islam described the purported letter as “completely fake” and “immature,” noting that it was improperly addressed to “Dear ICT” rather than a judge.
Legal Standing: He emphasized that Sheikh Hasina, currently a fugitive, has no legal right to appoint a law firm or engage in tribunal proceedings.
Warning of Legal Action: The Chief Prosecutor warned that if such a letter is officially received, it would be considered contempt of court. He stated that legal action, including contempt proceedings, would be pursued against any firm or individual involved in sending such communications.
International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) Chief Prosecutor Md Aminul Islam said that no letter has been received at the tribunal from any UK-based legal service provider on behalf of the ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who was sentenced to death in a case of crimes against humanity. He added that if any such letter is sent, legal action will be taken against the law firm and those on whose behalf it is sent.
Aminul Islam further stated, “If this letter is officlly received by us, the language and content of the letter would constitute contempt of court. We will take legal action, including contempt proceedings, against the firms and those on whose behalf such letters are sent.”In a case of crimes against humanity committed during the July mass uprising, Sheikh Hasina was sentenced to death by the International Crimes Tribunal–1 on 17 November last year.
Former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan also received a death sentence in the same case. Former Police Inspector General Chowdhury Abdullah Al-Mamun was sentenced to five years in prison as an approver (state witness) in this case.
