Despite growing criticism over the slow pace of proceedings at Bangladesh’s International Crimes Tribunal (ICT), prosecutors say a series of high-profile verdicts are now approaching, with around 15 trials expected to be concluded this year.
A review of the tribunal’s recent activities by TIMES of Bangladesh, along with interviews with prosecutors and defence lawyers, suggests that several trials have entered decisive stages. The first judgement in this cycle is scheduled for January, with others expected to follow as testimony phases conclude.
People familiar with the process say 2026 is likely to be a pivotal year for cases linked to crimes against humanity allegedly committed during the tenure of deposed prime minister Sheikh Hasina, particularly those related to the July Uprising. These trials are attracting significant attention both domestically and internationally.
Senior prosecutor Mizanul Islam told TIMES that a number of cases are now at the indictment and testimony stages. “Several cases are in the stages of indictment and testimony. While some may conclude this year, it’s hard to predict the exact number,” he said.
Pressure for speed, warnings on fairness
Under the ICT Act, which was enacted to address crimes of this scale, trials are expected to proceed expeditiously. Once charges are framed, hearings move quickly, and cases advance toward verdicts after the conclusion of testimonies.
However, legal observers caution that speed should not come at the expense of due process. While a swift trial is considered essential for justice, there are concerns that rushing proceedings could compromise fairness. Ultimately, the timing of verdicts remains at the discretion of the court.
Defence lawyer Masud Salahuddin, who represents some of the accused, said, “Testimony hearings will take time, but ultimately, all cases will be concluded within the prescribed legal timelines.” Another defence counsel added, “The seriousness of the crimes necessitates the swift resolution of these cases, but the court will decide the pace.”
Key cases nearing verdict
One of the most closely watched cases involves the police shooting of peaceful protesters at Chankharpul in Dhaka on 5 August 2024 during the student-led uprising, in which six people, including Shahriar Khan Anas, were killed.
The investigation report in this case was submitted in April 2025, marking the first formal report on crimes committed during the July Uprising. The trial officially began on 14 July, with prosecutors seeking the death penalty for all eight accused. Four of them remain fugitives, while the others are in custody. A verdict is expected on 20 January.
Another major case involves former information minister Hasanul Haq Inu, who faces charges of crimes against humanity. Testimony in his case concluded on 6 January. The prosecution presented 20 witnesses, three audio recordings, and six videos, alleging that Inu incited and advised crimes during the days of violence in July. Inu is currently in prison.
Sheikh Hasina and former home minister Asaduzzaman Khan, who were sentenced to death for crimes against humanity last year, are now the subject of a prosecution appeal seeking harsher punishment. Abdullah Al Mamun, another accused, has filed an appeal seeking acquittal. These appeals are expected to be resolved this year.
Hasina also faces three additional cases at the tribunal, including one involving enforced disappearances during the uprising.
More trials scheduled this month
Several other cases are also moving forward. Dismissed major general Ziaul Ahsan is facing charges over multiple enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings allegedly committed between 2009 and 2016. His trial is scheduled to begin on 14 January.
Meanwhile, the trial concerning the 2013 mass killing of Hefazat-e-Islam members at Shapla Chattar in Dhaka continues, with the investigation report due on 12 January 2026. The case over the killing of six people in Kushtia during the uprising is also ongoing, with testimony scheduled for 13 January.
On 11 and 14 January, hearings are set for former prime minister’s adviser Sajeeb Wazed Joy and ICT state minister Zunaid Ahmed Palak, both accused of crimes during the uprising. Joy remains a fugitive, while Palak is currently in custody.
A decision is also expected on 12 January on whether trials will proceed against Hasina’s former adviser Salman F Rahman and former law minister Anisul Huq.
Families and rights groups voice frustration
Families of those killed, along with civil society observers, have repeatedly expressed frustration over what they describe as the “slow pace” of the trials.
Advocate Monir Hossain, convenor of the Bangladesh Law Association, told TIMES that the speed of the tribunal’s work has been unsatisfactory. “If the cases were proceeding at a proper pace, several should already have been resolved,” he said.
He added, “No one should be waiting for an elected government. The law must run its own course, and justice must be delivered according to the law.”
