Prosecutor Gazi Monowar: Verdict in Sheikh Hasina Case to Be Broadcast Live

The long-anticipated verdict in the case filed against former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and two other accused, over alleged crimes against humanity committed during the July mass uprising, will be broadcast live on Monday. The announcement has drawn nationwide attention, with many considering it one of the most consequential rulings in recent years.

The information was shared on Sunday morning during a media briefing held at the premises of the International Crimes Tribunal. Prosecutor Gazi Monowar Hossain Tamim stated that the tribunal had granted conditional approval for a portion of the verdict hearing to be aired live.

According to the prosecutor, Bangladesh Television (BTV) will broadcast the portion of the verdict that the tribunal chooses to read out in court. Other electronic media outlets across the country will also be allowed to relay the same feed simultaneously through BTV’s official transmission. He emphasised that this step reflects the tribunal’s intention to maintain transparency in proceedings that have generated considerable public interest.

The verdict will be delivered by the three-member bench of International Crimes Tribunal-1, headed by Justice Md Golam Mortuza Mojumdar. The other members of the panel are Justice Md Shafiul Alam Mahmud and Judge Md Mohitul Haque Enam Chowdhury. After months of hearings, submission of evidence, and witness testimonies, the trial has reached its decisive moment.

In addition to Sheikh Hasina, the accused include former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan and former Inspector General of Police (IGP) Chowdhury Abdullah Al-Mamun. Notably, the former IGP has given a statement as an “approver”—commonly known as a state witness—providing testimony that the prosecution describes as important to the case’s overall structure.

Public interest in the verdict is intense, with political observers, legal analysts, and citizens alike waiting to see the tribunal’s final decision. The live broadcast is expected to draw millions of viewers, marking a rare moment of judicial transparency in a matter of national significance.

Khaborwala/SJ