Charges under international tribunal
Justice Makers Bangladesh in France (JMBF) stated that the charges against prominent journalist Shahriar Kabir and veteran journalist Mozammel Haque involve the May 5, 2013, security operation aimed at dispersing a Hefazat-e-Islam protest in Dhaka. The group warned that such prosecutions could dangerously lead to the criminalization of journalism and severely hinder independent reporting.
The International Crimes Tribunal, which was originally established to address crimes from the 1971 War of Independence, has broadened its jurisdiction in recent years to handle high-profile cases. While JMBF accepted the tribunal's legal authority, it stressed the need for strict adherence to international standards for legal fairness and transparency.
Risk to press freedom and legal norms
The organization emphasized that prosecuting journalists based on their work or alleged associations with historical events could create a dangerous precedent. It argued this could lead to the suppression of critical journalism, discourage media professionals from reporting on sensitive topics, and erode public trust in the legal system. JMBF called for due process and fair trial protections to be fully upheld under international law.
JMBF urged the Bangladeshi authorities to protect freedom of expression and ensure that legal processes are not used as a tool to silence dissenting voices. The group also appealed to the international community to closely track the developments and push for compliance with Bangladesh’s international human rights obligations.
Historical context and public concern
The 2013 security operation to disperse a Hefazat-e-Islam rally in Dhaka remains a politically divisive issue. JMBF said the current case could further undermine confidence in the independence of the judiciary and the press, raising concerns about the impartiality of legal procedures in politically sensitive matters.
The group's public statement is the latest in a series of interventions addressing legal and human rights issues in Bangladesh. JMBF has consistently called for impartial legal proceedings and stressed the importance of transparency in all cases involving journalists, civil society, and human rights activists.
Call for fair trial proceedings
JMBF stressed that while accountability for serious crimes is crucial for justice, it must not be used to target individuals based solely on their journalism or political views. The organization emphasized that legal actions should meet international standards for fairness, transparency, and judicial independence.
The rights group reiterated Bangladesh’s obligations under international human rights law, including the protections for freedom of expression and the right to a fair trial. It also noted the broader implications of this case for media independence and the credibility of the legal system in the country.
Background to the case
The charges against Kabir, Haque, and others relate to the violent dispersal of the Hefazat-e-Islam rally in Dhaka on May 5, 2013. The incident has been a contentious issue for more than a decade, with ongoing debates over its political and legal implications. The International Crimes Tribunal has taken a central role in adjudicating such cases, despite questions about its jurisdiction and independence.
Shahriar Kabir is widely recognized for his work as a journalist, author, and human rights advocate, while Mozammel Haque has played a long-standing role in Bangladesh’s media landscape. JMBF did not dispute the tribunal’s authority but argued that any legal action involving journalists must align with strict international legal standards.
Demand for international oversight
In addition to urging the Bangladeshi authorities to comply with international human rights standards, JMBF called on the international community to pay close attention to this case. It said that external observers can play a vital role in ensuring adherence to Bangladesh's international legal commitments and in supporting efforts to uphold press freedom and judicial integrity.
This latest call from JMBF aligns with its broader advocacy for human rights and legal accountability in Bangladesh. The group has repeatedly highlighted concerns about the treatment of journalists, lawyers, and civil society activists in the country, urging a transparent and fair legal process in all cases.
Key Points and Questions
JMBF warned that these prosecutions could endanger press freedom and stifle independent reporting.
The group urged authorities to withdraw the charges and ensure due process is followed. It also called for international oversight to support Bangladesh’s adherence to human rights laws and to protect freedom of expression. The case involves journalists including Shahriar Kabir and Mozammel Haque, both widely respected in their fields.
JMBF argued that prosecuting journalists over their work or historical associations sets a dangerous precedent. It highlighted the importance of legal processes being conducted impartially and in accordance with international norms to ensure public trust in the judiciary and the media.