Statement: JusticeMakers Bangladesh in France – Gravely Concerned Over Politically Motivated Murder Case Filed Against Several Prominent Lawyers in Bangladesh

STATEMENT: JMBF Gravely Concerned Over Politically Motivated Murder Case Filed Against Several Prominent Lawyers in Bangladesh

Paris, France; September 04, 2024 — JusticeMakers Bangladesh in France (JMBF) strongly condemns the politically motivated charges filed against a group of highly respected legal professionals, including former Law Minister Barrister Shafiq Ahmed, former Attorney General AM Amin Uddin, Supreme Court lawyer Barrister Tania Amir, and others in connection with the killing of a student protester on September 1, 2024.

The case also names several other prominent lawyers such as former Prosecutor of the International Criminal Tribunal Advocate Syed Haider Ali, Advocate Mokhleshur Rahman Badal, former Deputy Attorney General Advocate Motaher Hossain Saju, former minister Advocate Nurul Islam Sujan, former state minister Advocate Mahbub Ali, and former Deputy Speaker Advocate Shamsul Haque Tuku.

These individuals are committed to upholding the law and advocating for justice, and the accusations made against them in connection with the tragic death of Imran Hossain are baseless and malicious.

According to news published by the Daily Prothom Alo on September 3, 2024, the case filed by Kohinoor Akhtar describes her son Imran as a brilliant student who was actively involved in an anti-discrimination student movement. On the morning of August 5, Imran participated in a peaceful protest alongside other students and members of the public at Qutubkhali in Jatrabari. The plaintiff alleges that the accused, acting on orders from former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, used live bullets, petrol bombs, cocktail explosions, hand grenades, and rubber bullets to suppress the protest. Imran was shot while passing in front of Jatrabari police station during the procession and was later declared dead at Dhaka Medical College Hospital in the evening.

Robert Simon, a prominent French Human Rights Activist and Chief Adviser of JMBF, stated, “These charges are not only an affront to the individuals involved but also a threat to the independence of the judiciary and the legal profession as a whole. We call for an immediate and impartial review of this case to prevent any miscarriage of justice.”

Advocate Shahanur Islam, Founder President of JMBF, added, “The independence of the judiciary and the legal profession must be protected. Those responsible for these fabricated accusations must be held accountable. We are confident that the truth will prevail and that these baseless accusations will be dismissed in due course.”

JMBF believes that the allegations against these esteemed lawyers and other prominent figures are an attempt to undermine the integrity and reputation of those who have served the nation with distinction. The claims made in the case are not supported by any credible evidence and appear to be politically motivated, aiming to tarnish the image of those who have consistently upheld the rule of law.

JMBF urges the authorities to thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding this case and ensure that justice is served, free from any political influence or manipulation.

JMBF stands in solidarity with our accused colleagues and reaffirms its commitment to justice, fairness, and the protection of human rights.

You can read the full statement visit by the following link: https://www.jmbf.org/2024/09/statement-jmbf-gravely-concerned-over.html

Thank you.

Advocate Shahanur Islam
Founder President
JusticeMakers Bangladesh in France (JMBF)
Email: [email protected] | Website: www.jmbf.org