The prosecution of the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) on Monday filed an appeal with the Appellate Division of the Supreme Court seeking enhancement of the life sentences awarded to deposed prime minister Sheikh Hasina and former home minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal to the death penalty.
The appeal challenges part of the verdict delivered by International Crimes Tribunal-1 (ICT-1) on November 17 in connection with a case filed for the crimes against humanity committed during the July Mass Uprising.
Although the tribunal sentenced both Hasina and Kamal to death on one major charge, it handed down sentences of imprisonment until natural death on another charge.
The prosecution is now seeking capital punishment for the charges that resulted in life imprisonment.
Speaking to reporters, ICT Prosecutor Gazi Monawar Hosain Tamim said the appeal was filed on eight grounds to justify enhancement of the punishment.
Meanwhile, in the same case, former inspector general of police Chowdhury Abdullah Al Mamun, who turned state witness and assisted the trial by providing evidence against the two accused, was given a reduced sentence of five years’ imprisonment.
The tribunal also ordered the confiscation of all properties owned by Sheikh Hasina and Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal in favour of the state and directed the authorities to ensure adequate compensation for the families of those killed and injured during the July uprising.
Under the law, an appeal must be filed within 30 days of the verdict, and the Appellate Division is required to dispose of the appeal within 60 days of its filing. Both Hasina and Kamal are currently absconding.
