Dhaka, Jan 07 (V7N) — The renovated main building and courtroom of the International Crimes Tribunal, refurbished for the trial of the July-August genocide, will be officially inaugurated today. Bangladesh Chief Justice Dr. Syed Refaat Ahmed will preside over the inauguration ceremony at 2:30 PM.

Abdullah Al Noman, prosecutor for the tribunal, confirmed that the aesthetically enhanced facility will serve as the venue for trials addressing the unprecedented genocide and crimes against humanity committed during July-August.

The "Old High Court Building," originally established as the "Governor House" in 1905, has served multiple purposes throughout its history, including as the "Dhaka High Court" during the Pakistan period. Since 2010, it has functioned as the International Crimes Tribunal. Due to safety concerns, the tribunal had been temporarily relocated to a tin shed adjacent to the historical building, where trials continued until now.

Following the fall of Sheikh Hasina's government on August 5, 2024, and the decision to hold the genocide trials at the tribunal, the interim government initiated renovations to bring the infrastructure up to international standards. The Ministry of Public Works oversaw the project, with legal advisor Dr. Asif Nazrul and public works advisor Adilur Rahman Khan conducting regular on-site inspections.

The newly renovated building, featuring a blend of modern functionality and historical aesthetics, is expected to enhance the tribunal's capacity to address significant cases. Chief Prosecutor Mohammad Tajul Islam recently shared photos of the revamped structure, praising its updated appearance.

The tribunal's reopening marks a pivotal moment for the legal and historical accountability of atrocities committed during the July-August period. The inaugural event is anticipated to be attended by key legal and governmental figures.

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