The International Crimes Tribunal in Bangladesh has sentenced Hasanul Huq Inu, former Minister and President of Jatiya Samajtantrik Dal, to 10 years in prison for crimes against humanity related to July 2024 protests. Journalist David Bergman criticized the verdict, stating that there was insufficient evidence to support the sentencing.
Bergman highlighted that the decisions leading to Inu’s conviction seemed to lack a strong evidence base, suggesting a presumption of guilt rather than a fair assessment of the facts. Despite being acquitted on five charges, Inu received 10-year prison terms on three convictions, running concurrently.
The report pointed out Inu’s criticism of the July 2024 protests and his allegations against political parties involved. It also raised concerns about the role of political affiliations in the prosecution, questioning the evidentiary foundation behind the charges.
Emphasizing the importance of evidence in criminal convictions, the report underscored the need for independent consideration of facts and legal standards in delivering justice. It called for a thorough review of the decision-making process by both prosecutors and judges involved in the case.
