Today the Tribunal heard matters in the following cases:
- Chief Prosecutor vs. Human Rights Watch
- Chief Prosecutor vs. Mir Qasem Ali
- Chief Prosecutor vs. Motiur Rahman Nizami
Contempt Proceedings
On 2 September 2013, the Tribunal issued a notice to Human Rights Watch Board of Directors, Executive Directors of Asia Division, Brad Adams, and Associate of Asian Division, Storm Tiv, asking them to submit an explanation within three weeks as to why contempt proceedings should not be brought against them for the publication of an article titled ‘Bangladesh: Azam Conviction Based on Flawed Proceedings: Analysis Outlines how Fair Trial, Rights of Accused Seriously Compromised’ regarding the judgment in the Gholam Azam’s case. Today, Md Asaduzzaman appeared on behalf of Human Rights Watch. However, he informed the Tribunal that he had not yet secured a signed power of Attorney, so he sought additional time from the Court, before proceeding. The Tribunal agreed to adjourn the proceedings in this matter until 4 November 2013.
Chief Prosecutor vs. Mir Qasem Ali
In the case of Mir Qasem Ali, today was set for opening statements. However, the Defense sought adjournment for 6 weeks. After granting the motion, the Tribunal ordered a transfer of the case from Tribunal 1 to Tribunal 2, in order to ensure timely disposal of the case. The Court cited the large number of cases that remained pending before Tribunal 1 in comparison with Tribunal 2.
Chief Prosecutor vs. Salauddin Qader Chowdhury
In the case of the Salauddin Qader Chowdhury, the Tribunal set tomorrow, 1 October 2013 for passing final Judgment.
Chief Prosecutor vs. Motiur Rahman Nizami
In the case of Motiur Rahman Nizami, the Defense cross-examined the Investigation Officer, PW-26. Thereafter, Tribunal adjourned the proceedings of the case until 2 October 2013.
The Bangladesh Trial Observer 