Fugitive defendants have no opportunity to appeal unless they surrender or are apprehended

The International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) today sentenced former prime minister Sheikh Hasina and ex-home minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal to death in the July–August crimes against humanity case.

Both the convicts, who fled the country during last year’s mass uprising in August, are now reportedly staying in India.

They have the opportunity to appeal against the verdict before the Appellate Division of the Supreme Court, but they must surrender to the court or must be arrested.

Attorney General Md Asaduzzaman and state-appointed defence lawyer in the case Amir Hossain made the remarks while talking to media separately after the announcement of the verdict.

The three-member Tribunal-1 headed by Justice Golam Mortuza Mojumder delivered the verdict, sentencing the ousted prime minister Sheikh Hasina and former home minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal to death.  Former Inspector General of Police (IGP) Chowdhury Abdullah Al Mamun, who became a state witness, was sentenced to five years’ imprisonment in the case.

During a conference following the verdict, state-appointed defence lawyer Amir Hossain stated that he did not have the opportunity to file an appeal in this case. Not until my clients surrender or are arrested through another means. Until then, there is no reason to file an appeal on Monday."

Attorney General Md Asaduzzaman told reporters that a fugitive or convicted accused has no opportunity or right to appeal unless arrested or surrendered.