Dealing with 'war criminals'
Monday, 10 August 2009
AS we know, justice with regard to the atrocities of the events surrounding the independence of Bangladesh in 1971 has been delayed for thirty eight years. As enshrined in international law, anyone accused of a crime, 'shall be entitled to a fair and public hearing by a competent, independent and impartial tribunal established by law.' (Article 14 ICCPR). War criminals are no exception and should also be afforded this right. However, the upholding of this right goes beyond that of observing the rights of one person. It is the only way of providing true accountability and, thus, delivering justice to the victims. This is particularly so since the impact of the trial will have deep repercussions on post- war/conflict transition and the commitment to the rule of law in elsewhere in the world.
The trial of war criminals of Bangladesh will be followed closely and scrutinised by the world. To achieve credibility both at home and abroad, it is essential that the tribunal operates independently and in line with international fair trial standards. Only then will it be seen as an institution that is able to dispense justice and not just another puppet institution to mimic its own disregard for the international rule of law.
Gopal Sengupta
Canada
gopalsengupta@aol.com
The trial of war criminals of Bangladesh will be followed closely and scrutinised by the world. To achieve credibility both at home and abroad, it is essential that the tribunal operates independently and in line with international fair trial standards. Only then will it be seen as an institution that is able to dispense justice and not just another puppet institution to mimic its own disregard for the international rule of law.
Gopal Sengupta
Canada
gopalsengupta@aol.com