Journalist Ashraf Kaiser provided testimony to the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT)-2 on Sunday against seven accused, including former minister Obaidul Quader, regarding crimes against humanity committed during the July mass uprising.
During the proceedings, Kaiser told the court that the events of 2024 revealed the fascist and violent nature of Awami League (AL) and its affiliated organisations, which he described as a matter of deep concern for democratic politics.
He said fascist forces such as Awami League cannot coexist with democracy and human rights.
Kaiser further said that following the deaths of approximately 1,400 people and injuries to 25,000 others – many of whom suffered permanent disabilities – it is necessary to reach a new decision regarding the political future of Awami League and its wings.
This is essential, he argued, to ensure the country never returns to a fascist system of governance and violent politics. In his testimony, Kaiser held several high-ranking individuals accountable for the casualties inflicted by law enforcement and party members.
Those named include former prime minister Sheikh Hasina, former home minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal, former inspector general of police (IGP) Benazir Ahmed, the head of Rapid Action Battalion (RAB), and Awami League seneral secretary Obaidul Quader.
He also cited the involvement of AFM Bahauddin Nasim, Mohammad A Arafat, Nikhil, Parash, Saddam, Inan, and various central and district-level leaders.
Kaiser said failing to ensure a fair trial for these events would weaken the rule of law and risk the re-emergence of an anti-people regime.
The journalist alleged that alongside state forces, various wings of Awami League participated in the violence as “auxiliary forces”. He specifically identified Chhatra League, Jubo League, Swechchhasabek League, Sramik League, Sainik League, and Shishu League as being involved in widespread killings.
Kaiser claimed that much of this remained hidden from public at the time due to a nationwide internet shutdown. He also said a United Nations report documented instances of police and armed groups associated with Awami League carrying firearms and opening fire on civilians.
Kaiser further testified that Awami League general secretary Obaidul Quader and leaders of the 14-party alliance publicly announced “shoot at sight” directives against student protesters, which paved the way for the use of lethal weapons.
He added that under the direction of Sheikh Hasina, senior leaders including Quader, AFM Bahauddin Nasim, Mohammad A Arafat, Nikhil, Parash, Saddam, and Inan repeatedly instructed their subordinates to exercise maximum force to suppress the student-led uprising.
