International Crimes Tribunal-1 (ICT-1) today exonerated BNP chairperson's adviser and Supreme Court lawyer Fazlur Rahman from contempt charge for his remarks about the tribunal during a recent television talk show.
On the day, Fazlur appeared before tribunal and offered an unconditional apology.
As the proceedings began, Fazlur's counsel Advocate Ruhul Quddus Kazal sought permission for his client to take a seat as he was standing before the court.
Tribunal Chairman Justice Md Golam Mortuza Mozumder allowed the request.
In his submission, Kazal told the tribunal that Fazlur expressed deep remorse and unconditional apology for his comments. At that point, the tribunal asked the prosecution to respond.
Prosecutor Gazi Monawar Hossain Tamim informed the court that during a talk show, Fazlur had stated that he did not accept the tribunal.
The tribunal then asked Fazlur to speak for himself. Responding from the podium, Fazlur said, "My Lord, I did not speak in that way."
Addressing the bench, Fazlur said, "You are respected after God. I made a slip of tongue. I am 78 years old, and this is the first mistake I have made. I offer my unconditional apology."
The tribunal, while cautioning him, remarked, "You have liberty, but you must remain within limits." It further stated that the ICT is not a court meant for any specific group or period, and crimes against humanity may take place at any time.
"There is a misperception that freedom fighters are being brought here for trial." the chairman noted.
Accepting his apology, the tribunal exonerated Fazlur Rahman from the contempt proceedings.
Earlier, the tribunal had ordered him to appear in person to explain why contempt proceedings should not be initiated for his remarks.
FP/MI
