The International Crimes Tribunal in Bangladesh has found former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina guilty of crimes against humanity. The ruling stems from her role in the violent suppression of student protests, which led to her ousting and subsequent exile in India in August 2024. Prosecutors are seeking the death penalty, with the court still in session to determine her final sentence.
On Monday, a panel of three judges delivered the verdict, concluding that Hasina incited hundreds of extrajudicial killings carried out by law enforcement during the protests. The court heard that approximately 1,400 protestors were killed and up to 25,000 injured in the unrest that unfolded in the summer of 2024. Hasina faced five charges, which included inciting murder, ordering the hanging of protestors, and directing the use of lethal weapons, drones, and helicopters against demonstrators. She has consistently denied the allegations.
Hasina did not attend the court proceedings in Dhaka, as she currently resides in self-imposed exile. The trial has faced criticism from her legal team, who raised concerns regarding the fairness of the proceedings. Last week, they submitted an appeal to the United Nations Special Rapporteur on extrajudicial, summary or arbitrary executions, citing serious concerns about her trial rights and due process.
Political Ramifications and Future Uncertainty
The verdict is likely to have significant implications for the political landscape in Bangladesh, particularly as national elections are anticipated in February 2025. Hasina’s administration, which ruled the South Asian nation with an iron fist from 2009 until her ousting, has left a legacy marked by controversy and repression.
Given the gravity of the charges and the potential for unrest, many fear that the ruling could trigger political chaos in a nation already grappling with divisions. Observers are closely monitoring the situation, as the reaction to the verdict could influence the upcoming electoral process and the stability of the country.
This is a developing story, and further updates are expected as the situation unfolds.
