Why was Azharul Islam acquitted of 1971 war crimes?

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Azharul Islam Acquitted of 1971 War Crimes by Bangladesh's Supreme Court

The Supreme Court of Bangladesh acquitted A.T.M. Azharul Islam, a leader of the Jamaat-e-Islami party, of crimes against humanity on May 27, ordering his release. Islam had been on death row since his 2014 conviction for rape, murder, and genocide during the country's 1971 independence war. This acquittal occurred following the ousting of the former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's regime.
Supreme Court Orders Release of Convicted Islamist Leader

A.T.M. Azharul Islam, who had been in custody since 2012, was acquitted by the Supreme Court, which subsequently ordered his release. Islam was sentenced to death in 2014 for his alleged involvement in atrocities during the 1971 war. His lawyer, Shishir Monir, expressed that Islam was fortunate to be alive, noting that five other senior political figures convicted in similar war crimes cases had already been executed.
Legal Proceedings and Appeals

Islam had appealed his conviction multiple times. After his initial sentencing in 2014, the verdict was upheld by the court in 2019, and he filed a review petition in 2020. His most recent appeal was filed on February 27, shortly before his acquittal by the full bench led by Chief Justice Syed Refaat Ahmed. Islam's lawyer also commented that the appellate division had failed to review the evidence in other war crimes cases.
Political Context and Regime Change

The acquittal took place after the end of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's 15-year rule, which concluded in August 2024 due to a student-led revolt. Hasina had banned Jamaat-e-Islami and taken action against its leaders during her tenure. The party's historical support for Pakistan during the 1971 war remains a sensitive issue for many Bangladeshis. The interim government has indicated that elections are expected to be held by June 2026 at the latest.

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Why was Azharul Islam acquitted of 1971 war crimes?

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