After Hasina’s verdict, AL must face trial: Nahid
Staff Reporter :
National Citizen Party (NCP) Convener Nahid Islam on Monday welcomed the death sentence handed down to former prime minister Sheikh Hasina in the
July-August mass killing case, but emphasised that the Awami League itself must also be held accountable.
Speaking to reporters at the NCP headquarters, Nahid said the judgment targeted “Hasina as an individual,” yet the Awami League, as a political entity, played a central role in the atrocities and other acts classified as crimes against humanity.
“This verdict exposes the party’s involvement. We urge the tribunal to now initiate proceedings against the Awami League. As a political organisation, they bear equal responsibility.
Hasina, as party chief and head of government, instructed and orchestrated the mass killings,” he said.
He demanded that the sentence be executed without delay. “She must be brought back within a month so that the punishment is carried out. Only then will our hearts find peace,” he added.
Nahid further stated that the families of the July victims will truly receive justice only when the sentence is enforced. “We promised to seek justice the day Abu Sayed was gunned down in Rangpur. Today’s verdict honours that promise,” he said.
Meanwhile, the National Citizen Party organised a mass rally in the capital, calling for the implementation of the death sentence against the ousted prime minister and for the prosecution of the banned Awami League.
The rally began at 6:30pm from the party’s Banglamotor office and proceeded through surrounding streets.
Addressing the crowd after the rally, NCP Chief Coordinator Nasir Uddin Patwary said, “Those who shot at our brothers and were shielded by the state committed grave injustice.
The security adviser is now in India. We urge the Indian government – just as you sheltered Sheikh Hasina, now send her back.”
He urged the public, “Cast your votes only for those who will deliver reforms and ensure justice. We demand a truly free and fair election.”
Issuing a stern message, he added, “The Awami League thrived through the politics of bullets. This time, they will be defeated through ballots.
A few academics and intellectuals are still instigating people. We warn them – do not push us beyond our limits.”