Cabinet nods ICT Ordinance: ICT can penalise political parties

The Advisory Council has approved the draft of the International Crimes Tribunal Ordinance, 2024, introducing a provision empowering the tribunal to prosecute and punish political parties involved in crimes against humanity.  

The decision was made during a meeting of the interim cabine held on Wednesday (November 20) at the Cabinet Division, with Chief Adviser Dr Muhammad Yunus in the chair. 

An adviser present at the meeting, requesting anonymity, confirmed the development.  

This ordinance amends the International Crimes Tribunal Act of 1973 and was introduced by the Legislative and Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Law Ministry.  

On Tuesday, Law, Justice, and Parliamentary Affairs Adviser Asif Nazrul said that the draft ordinance allows the tribunal to propose punitive actions to relevant authorities if deemed necessary. 

"There are institutions like the Home Ministry and Election Commission. The court may suggest punitive actions, but it is not bound to enforce them," he said.  

The ordinance is expected to be promulgated by Thursday (November 21), following its approval by the council, Asif Nazrul added.  

This new ordinance has sparked discussions about its implications, particularly its unprecedented focus on the accountability of political parties for crimes against humanity.

The advisory council meeting, which began around 11:00am, marked Dr. Muhammad Yunus's first official day at the Cabinet Division since assuming the role of Chief Adviser. The Advisory Council also for the first time held meeting at the Cabinet Division.

Tight security measures were implemented for the meeting.