Michael accuses Hasina of enforced disappearance, files ICT complaint

Michael Chakma, a leader of the United People's Democratic Front (UPDF), has lodged a complaint with the International Crimes Tribunal against former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, naming her as the prime accused in keeping him forcibly disappeared for more than five years.

Michael Chakma verbally submitted the complaint to the tribunal's Chief Prosecutor, Mohammad Tazul Islam on Wednesday.

The Chief Prosecutor confirmed that the prosecution has accepted the verbal complaint in accordance with legal provisions. He stated that once a detailed written complaint is submitted in the coming days, the tribunal's investigation agency will begin its inquiry into the matter.

Accompanied by renowned photographer Dr. Shahidul Alam and his wife, Professor Rahnuma Ahmed, Michael Chakma arrived at the tribunal shortly after 9:00 am. He alleged that on April 9, 2019, he was abducted from the Kalyanpur area in the capital. Since then, he claims to have been held in enforced disappearance at various locations for 5 years and 4 months. Michael Chakma asserted that his disappearance was due to his critical statements against the former Prime Minister and the Awami League.

He further stated that he was released blindfolded in Chattogram in the early hours of August 7, two days after the fall of the Awami League government on August 5.