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The prosecution on Sunday presented a call recording allegedly featuring Awami League General Secretary Obaidul Quader and former ICT State Minister Zunaid Ahmed Palak before the International Crimes Tribunal-2.
The recording was submitted as evidence on the third day of closing arguments in the case against seven senior Awami League leaders over alleged crimes against humanity committed during the July-August 2024 uprising.
The prosecution claimed that the recording captured a conversation between Quader and Palak, in which Quader allegedly instructed Palak to slow down internet speeds during the movement.
In the audio, Quader can allegedly be heard saying, “Slow down the internet a little.”
Palak reportedly replied, “Shall I get permission from the leader?” referring to ousted prime minister Sheikh Hasina.
Quader allegedly responded, “Yes, get it. Many people are telling me about these issues.”
When Palak referred to the need for approval, Quader allegedly said, “No, no, ask her first and then tell [them].”
The recording was presented before Tribunal-2, headed by Justice Nazrul Islam Chowdhury, on Sunday. Prosecutor Gazi MH Tamim argued the case for the prosecution, assisted by prosecutors Faruk Ahmed, Sultan Mahmud and Shahidul Islam Sardar. Defence lawyers were also present.
On August 6, the second day of closing arguments, the prosecution submitted another phone conversation allegedly involving Quader and former Bangladesh Chhatra League President Saddam Hossain.
Seven people are accused in the case. Palak is the only accused currently in custody, while the other six are absconding.
The absconding accused are Obaidul Quader, Awami League Joint General Secretary AFM Bahauddin Nasim, former Information and Broadcasting State Minister Mohammad Ali Arafat, Jubo League President Sheikh Fazle Shams Parash, General Secretary Mainul Hossain Khan Nikhil, Chhatra League President Saddam Hossain and General Secretary Wali Asif Enan.
The prosecution has accused the defendants of jointly issuing instructions, inciting supporters and making provocative statements to suppress the July-August 2024 movement.
According to the prosecution, the accused allegedly held several meetings to plan violence, called on party activists to take to the streets and played roles in alleged armed attacks, harsh suppression and attempts to control the media.
The case alleges that their actions contributed to killings, attempted killings and widespread violence across the country, amounting to crimes against humanity.
A total of 28 witnesses, including the investigation officer, have testified in the case. Closing arguments began at the tribunal on August 4.
The tribunal took cognisance of the formal charges submitted by the prosecution on December 18 last year and ordered the trial to begin after framing charges against the seven accused on January 22 this year.
