TDS Desk:

The interim government has enacted a significant legal reform disqualifying individuals indicted in crimes against humanity cases from participating in any future elections, including parliamentary and local government polls.

The amendment to the International Crimes (Tribunals) Act, 1973, was approved Thursday during a meeting of the Council of Advisers chaired by Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus at the Chief Adviser’s Office in Tejgaon.

Announcing the development at a press conference held at the Foreign Service Academy on Bailey Road, Press Secretary to the Chief Adviser Shafiqul Alam confirmed that a new Section 20(C) has been inserted into the Act through an ordinance.

This provision imposes immediate political and public service disqualifications on anyone against whom formal charges have been framed under Section 9(1) of the ICT Act.

“Any person indicted in a case concerning crimes against humanity, war crimes, or genocide during the 1971 Liberation War will no longer be eligible to contest elections or hold public office,” Shafiqul Alam said.

Under the amended law, such individuals will be disqualified from: Being elected or continuing as a Member of Parliament; contesting or serving in local government bodies, including as councilor, chairman, mayor, or administrator; being appointed to any position in the service of the Republic or holding any other public office.

Shafiqul Alam emphasised that the disqualification takes effect immediately upon the filing of a chargesheet, not awaiting conviction.