Two British lawyers have submitted an urgent appeal to the United Nations, raising concerns over fair trial rights and due process in the trial of ousted prime minister Sheikh Hasina before Bangladesh’s International Crimes Tribunal (ICT). The appeal cites “serious concerns” over violations of Hasina’s right to a fair trial and proper legal procedure during her in absentia prosecution. Steven Powles KC, representing the Awami League, filed the UN appeal on Hasina’s behalf. Moreover, the chief prosecutor also suffers from the appearance of bias, himself having appeared at political rallies calling for the ban of Sheikh Hasina’s Awami League. Moreover, lawyers who have previously acted on behalf of or who are associated with the Awami League have been attacked and are unable to carry out their professional duties without intimidation.
