The International Crimes Tribunal-1 has formally framed charges against former food minister Kamrul Islam and Workers Party president Rashed Khan Menon in connection with killings during the July uprising. The three-member panel, led by Justice Golam Mortuza Majumder, issued the order on Thursday and set June 9 for opening statements and the first witness testimony.

Earlier, on March 11, defense counsel Monsurul Haque Chowdhury sought acquittal, arguing that the prosecution failed to present sufficient evidence linking the accused to any killings. Chief Prosecutor Aminul opposed the plea, asserting that the charges were based on credible evidence and that the prosecution would prove the crimes during trial. The tribunal had reserved its order for April 30 after hearing both sides.

According to the prosecution, Kamrul and Menon allegedly incited violence and authorized the use of lethal force against unarmed protesters to sustain Sheikh Hasina’s government. Both men were arrested in 2024 and have remained in custody since then.