Response to Media Reports from Bangladesh concerning Chowdhury Mueen-Uddin Oct 2012

The following is a statement from Mr Toby Cadman, representing Chowdhury Mueen-Uddin. Click here to download the full statement.

"On 10 October 2012 the International Crimes Tribunal (Bangladesh) Investigative Agency held a press briefing in which it was declared that they have finalized their investigations against Mr. Chowdhury Mueen-Uddin.

First, no formal allegations have been put to Mr. Mueen-Uddin and therefore it is not appropriate to issue any formal response to the allegations. If formal charges are brought then we may consider issuing a formal response in the appropriate form.

Second, the question of whether a summons will be issued is one for the Tribunal to respond and therefore no speculation is appropriate.

Third, any and all allegations that Mr. Mueen-Uddin committed or participated in any criminal conduct during the Liberation War of 1971 have been strongly denied in the past and will continue to be strongly denied in their entirety.

Fourth, in relation to the continuous statements made by members of the Prosecution, Investigative Agency and indeed the Government, we would reiterate that any statements of guilt made by the authorities are in breach of the presumption of innocence and will prejudice the fairness of proceedings. A virulent media campaign can prejudice a fair trial and the trial process may amount to an abuse of process. Whilst it is recognised that the courts cannot operate in a vacuum and that reporting; including comment, on court proceedings contributes to their publicity and is thus perfectly consonant with the requirement that hearings be public and transparent, this is not the case where such media comment creates an atmosphere of hostility to the extent that the fairness of proceedings are severely prejudiced.

Finally, members of the media are kindly reminded that they have a duty to report accurately and fairly and to respect the ethical conduct that their profession dictates. Any departure from this accepted rule will be responded to appropriately."

Toby M. Cadman