Verdict Today in Case Against 7 Awami League Leaders, Including Quader and Saddam

The verdict in the case against seven Awami League leaders—including General Secretary Obaidul Quader—accused of crimes against humanity related to the July mass uprising, will be announced today, Tuesday (September 15). International Crimes Tribunal-2 will deliver the judgment. The prosecution has sought the maximum penalty for the accused.

A three-member judicial panel led by Tribunal-2 Chairman Justice Nazrul Islam Chowdhury will announce the verdict. The other two members of the panel are Judge Md. Manjurul Basid and Judge Noor Mohammad Shahriar Kabir. All seven accused in the case are currently fugitives.

Apart from Obaidul Quader, the other accused are Awami League Joint General Secretary AFM Bahauddin Nasim, former State Minister for Information and Broadcasting Mohammad Ali Arafat, Jubo League President Sheikh Fazle Shams Parash, General Secretary Mainul Hossain Khan Nikhil, and Chhatra League President Saddam Hussain and General Secretary Wali Asif Inan.

According to prosecution data, the investigation into the case began on June 18, 2025. Following the investigation, the report was submitted to the Chief Prosecutor's office on December 7 of the same year. After scrutiny, formal charges were filed with the tribunal on December 18 and were taken into cognizance that same day. After completing subsequent legal procedures, the tribunal ordered the commencement of the trial by framing charges against the seven accused on January 22 of this year.

Judicial proceedings began on February 17 with the prosecution's opening statement and the testimony of the first witness. A total of 29 witnesses, including the investigating officer, testified. Arguments began on August 4 following the conclusion of testimony on August 2. The case was reserved for verdict after the prosecution and state defense concluded their arguments on August 17. A total of 123 sets of documents were presented as evidence in the case.

The prosecution alleges that the accused played a role in suppressing the July-August movement through orders, incitement, and provocative statements. Allegations have been raised regarding the organization of resistance against protesters, the planning of violence during various meetings, and involvement in acts of repression. The prosecution has claimed that these activities led to killings, attempted murders, and widespread violence. However, the final judicial assessment of these allegations will be revealed through today's verdict.