Toby Cadman, a UK lawyer and adviser to the Special Prosecutor of the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT), expressed hope that India would extradite former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina if she is convicted, showing respect for Bangladesh’s judicial system.
“India is a democratic nation that respects the rule of law. Therefore, if Sheikh Hasina is convicted, India will likely send her back to Bangladesh in accordance with our judicial system,” Cadman said while speaking to reporters after a meeting with Chief Prosecutor Tajul Islam and officials from the ICT investigation team.
He added that, given the relationship between Bangladesh and India, he preferred not to speculate on how India would respond regarding Hasina.
Cadman emphasized that there should be no political interference in the prosecutor team’s work, with whom he is currently collaborating.
He mentioned consulting with the United Nations, the UK Government, the US Government, and the European Union, all of whom fully support the tribunal’s efforts. “They hope the trial will help restore the rule of law in Bangladesh,” he noted.
“As a British lawyer, my role is strictly to assist the prosecutor team in ensuring the trial meets international standards and follows a transparent process. Whether Sheikh Hasina is sentenced to death or acquitted will ultimately be decided by the court,” Cadman clarified.
When asked if the case could be taken to the International Criminal Court (ICC), Cadman explained, “Bangladesh is a member of the ICC. If Bangladesh is unable to carry out the trial for any reason, the ICC has jurisdiction to handle it independently, as it is doing in cases involving Putin and Netanyahu. However, the ICC cannot resolve every issue.”
He urged the people of Bangladesh to remain patient during the trial so the prosecutor team and investigation agency can perform their duties effectively. “This trial process is crucial for the country,” he said.
Cadman visited Bangladesh following the fall of the Awami League-led government during a mass uprising. On September 2, he met with Chief Adviser Dr. Yunus.
