The International Crimes Tribunal-1 has recorded testimony against Sajeeb Wazed Joy, the then Information and Communication Technology (ICT) advisor to ousted prime minister Sheikh Hasina, and Zunaid Ahmed Palak, ex-state minister for ICT.
Tanvir Hassan Zoha, a special investigation officer and prosecutor, gave his statement as a seizure list witness before the International Crimes Tribunal-1 on 4 March.
Following the deposition, the witness was cross-examined by Palak’s counsel, Aminul Gani Tito, and Joy’s state-appointed lawyer, Manjur Alam. The tribunal has fixed 10 March as the next date for recording further testimony in this crimes against humanity case.
The formal trial began after the court framed charges against the accused on January 21. During the opening statement on 18 February, the prosecution identified Joy and Palak as key masterminds behind the July genocide.
According to the prosecution, Joy issued the directives to shut down the internet during the mass uprising, which were subsequently implemented by Palak. The prosecution contends that these actions fall under the category of crimes against humanity.
The defence has denied all allegations.
Palak’s lawyer argued in court that the former state minister did not issue the internet shutdown orders, asserting instead that the directives originated from the Ministry of Home Affairs. The defence further claimed that efforts were made to resolve issues through discussion to prevent rumours and avoid “untoward incidents.”
While Palak is currently in custody and was produced from prison for the hearing, Joy remains absconding. Palak pleaded not guilty in response to the charges.
The tribunal had previously taken the charges into cognizance on 4 December, at which time an arrest warrant was issued for Joy, and Palak was shown arrested for crimes against humanity committed during the July mass uprising.
A total of three charges have been brought against them in this case.
