Gwyn Lewis assures ICT of UN support

The resident coordinator of the United Nations (UN) in Bangladesh Gwyn Lewis has assured the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) of the continuous support of the world body to continue the trial process smoothly. 

"Gwyn Lewis said the UN would support this trial process as much as possible so that it goes on smoothly as the country's people have an aspiration for this," ICT Chief Prosecutor Muhammad Tajul Islam said at a press briefing held at his office on Sunday afternoon. 

Lewis earlier met with the ICT prosecution team at the chief prosecutor's office in the morning.

They discussed issues of mutual interest related to justice, human rights, and accountability.

"We had an open discussion. The UN official wanted to know about the current stage of trial and investigation processes, whether we are facing any problems and whether we need any cooperation from the UN. She wanted to know the steps we are taking to make the trial process transparent and neutral," Tajul added. 

Lewis at the meeting emphasized the United Nations' commitment to supporting Bangladesh's efforts in advancing 'transitional justice' and ensuring accountability for past atrocities.

She highlighted the importance of the ICT's role in promoting justice and reconciliation, as well as its alignment with international human rights standards, prosecution sources said. 

Tajul at the time provided an overview of the tribunal's progress, challenges and contributions to justice for the victims of crimes against humanity and war crimes committed during the War of Liberation.

He reiterated the tribunal's commitment to transparency and adherence to due process while delivering justice. 

"We reiterated the need for holding training programs for the ICT prosecution and investigation agency and said if the UN takes any step in this regard, it would be very helpful for us. We also requested to continue the UN's support for the trial process. She gave us assurance on training and technical support," he further said.

UN Senior Human Rights Adviser to Bangladesh Huma Khan was present as part of the visiting delegation, while Gazi MH Tamim, BM Sultan Mahmud, Abdullah Al Noman and Shaikh Mahdi, among others, were present for the ICT prosecution team.

Source: BSS