DHAKA, Bangladesh: Shafiqur Rahman, leader of Bangladesh’s Jamaat-e-Islami, has called for the extradition of ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to face trial for crimes against humanity.
Rahman, whose party was heavily persecuted during Hasina’s 15-year rule, supports her trial in the same tribunal that convicted several of his colleagues. Under Hasina’s government, Jamaat-e-Islami was banned, accused of supporting extremist activities—allegations Rahman strongly denies.
Rahman’s demand comes in the wake of Hasina’s ousting, following a student-led revolution in August, and her exile to India. Jamaat, now reinstated after the fall of Hasina’s government, is undergoing a public revival under Rahman’s leadership.
He emphasizes that the trials for Hasina and her allies should be fair and just, contrasting them with what he describes as unjust proceedings against Jamaat leaders during Hasina’s tenure.
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The controversial International Crimes Tribunal, set up by Hasina’s administration executed five top Jamaat leaders. These trials were criticized internationally for procedural shortcomings, with rights groups accusing the tribunal of serving as a tool to eliminate political opposition. Rahman now calls for reform of the tribunal and posthumous appeals for his executed colleagues, arguing they were denied justice.
Rahman also outlines Jamaat’s future political strategy, with plans to contest upcoming national elections, though he insists that electoral reforms must first be implemented. While Jamaat has not yet formed an alliance with its former partner, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), Rahman voiced support for the return of BNP leader Tarique Rahman, who has been in exile in London.
Despite accusations of extremism from Hasina’s government, Rahman vehemently denies Jamaat’s involvement in any radical activities. He stresses the party’s commitment to democracy and its efforts to protect minority groups, particularly in the wake of attacks on Bangladesh’s Hindu population following Hasina’s fall.
Rahman’s remarks highlight Jamaat’s intentions to rebuild its political presence and demand accountability for what he perceives as injustices committed by Hasina’s regime.
