The prosecution at the International Crimes Tribunal-2 on Tuesday presented a phone conversation between Awami League General Secretary Obaidul Quader and Jubo League Chairman Sheikh Fazle Shams Parash, in which Quader allegedly urged the youth-wing leader to mobilise supporters on the streets as the July 2024 uprising intensified.

The recording was presented on August 11 during closing arguments in the case against Quader and seven others.

According to the prosecution, the conversation took place on August 1, 2024, as the student-led movement was intensifying across the country and the Awami League government faced mounting pressure.

In the recording presented before the tribunal, Quader appeared to question Parash over his absence from the streets.

“I see you’re just roaming around the border and beyond the border! What’s going on? When the streets are burning, where are you?” Quader purportedly told him.

Parash responded that although he was away, he was closely monitoring developments.

“No, uncle, I’m monitoring everything! Even though I’m far away, my mind and eyes are on every moment of what is happening. I’m with all of you,” he said, according to the recording.

Quader, however, allegedly insisted that following developments from a distance was not enough.

“But sitting far away and staying out of sight like this won’t do anymore,” he said.

Parash replied: “You can check, uncle. I left before the 25th. But every day and every moment since then, I have been with you both mentally and institutionally!”

“Being physically present on the streets and keeping track of things from afar are not the same thing!” Quader responded.

Parash agreed, saying: “Yes, uncle, you’re right! I understand what you’re saying… Please go on?”

Quader then allegedly stressed the need for a physical presence on the streets.

“I’m saying that what matters now is being physically present on the ground and standing your ground,” he said.

Parash replied that he would return.

“Yes, yes, absolutely! We can’t just sit at home in the face of this surging wave of students and the public. I’m coming right away—of course, of course I’m coming!”

The conversation then turned to a planned procession the following day.

“And listen, about tomorrow’s procession…” Quader said.

“Yes, uncle, go ahead,” Parash replied.

“Make sure there is maximum turnout tomorrow! The streets cannot be left empty,” Quader said, according to the recording.

Parash responded: “Yes, uncle, that’s exactly what we’re preparing for. We will definitely take to the streets with our people.”

Quader then warned him about the gravity of the situation.

“That’s why I called you out of the blue. The situation is not good!”

Parash concluded the conversation by saying he would immediately contact others and instruct them to mobilise.

“No, no, uncle, thank you. All right, I’m calling everyone right now and instructing them to take to the streets. Yes, uncle… Assalamu Alaikum!”

The prosecution presented the conversation as part of its arguments against Quader and seven other accused before International Crimes Tribunal-2.

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