Bangladesh to Replace ICT Chief Prosecutor Tajul Islam with Aminul Islam
The government of Bangladesh has decided to appoint a new Chief Prosecutor at the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT), replacing incumbent Chief Prosecutor Tajul Islam, according to reliable sources.
Advocate Aminul Islam is reportedly being considered for the position. He previously served as a member of the defense legal team for Khaleda Zia, chairperson of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), in corruption cases that led to her conviction and imprisonment.
A trusted source said that Tajul Islam has already been informally informed about the decision to replace him. When contacted by reporters, he declined to comment on the matter. As of the time of publication, government spokespersons have not issued any official statement regarding the change.
Just three days ago, Tajul Islam told journalists that he had received no indication of any move to remove him or reshuffle members of the prosecution team.
The International Crimes Tribunal is currently overseeing trials related to allegations of crimes against humanity during the July 2024 mass protests in Bangladesh. The cases involve leaders of the Awami League and members of law enforcement agencies accused of killing and injuring protesters and bystanders.
The July 2024 uprising ultimately led to the fall of the government of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.
In addition, the tribunal is hearing cases related to enforced disappearances allegedly committed between 2009 and 2024. So far, three cases have been concluded.
The reported change in the ICT’s leadership comes at a critical time, as the tribunal handles high-profile and politically sensitive cases. The appointment of a new chief prosecutor could have significant implications for the direction and pace of ongoing trials.
Observers are now awaiting an official announcement from the government confirming the leadership change and outlining the next steps for the tribunal.
