Death Sentences for Seven Leaders Reflect Government’s Policy: Rashed Khan

Mr. Rashed Khan, the political assistant to the Prime Minister with the rank of secretary, has asserted that the death sentences recently handed down to seven high-ranking Awami League leaders demonstrate the BNP government’s strict ‘zero tolerance’ policy toward criminals. He shared this perspective in a detailed statement posted on his personal Facebook account on Wednesday, September 16, following the high-profile court ruling.

The legal action stems from a landmark verdict delivered on Tuesday by International Crimes Tribunal-2. The tribunal sentenced Awami League General Secretary Mr. Obaidul Quader, former State Minister for Information Mohammad Ali Arafat, and five other prominent political figures, Mr. AFM Bahauddin Nasim, Sheikh Fazle Shams Parash, Mr. Mainul Hossain Khan Nikhil, Mr. Saddam Hossain, and Sheikh Wali Asif Inan, to death for crimes against humanity committed during the July mass uprising.

Addressing political dynamics, Mr. Rashed Khan criticized Jamaat and the NCP for previously promoting a narrative that the BNP administration would fail to prosecute the genocide. He specifically targeted Jamaat Ameer Dr. Shafiqur Rahman, claiming the party favored a general amnesty for the Awami League due to electoral motives. He remarked, ‘Jamaat’s falsehood has been defeated following the death sentences of the seven leaders,’ adding that the party should apologize to the nation for allegedly trying to tag the government falsely.

Concluding his statement, Mr. Rashed Khan commended the entire prosecution team, led by Chief Prosecutor Md. Aminul Islam, for their critical role in gathering and presenting vital evidence. He urged Jamaat to issue a public apology for its stance on the genocide trials, stating that the government has successfully proven its unwavering commitment to justice through the rigorous judicial process.