Sheikh Hasina, the former Prime Minister of Bangladesh, has been sentenced to death by the International Crimes Tribunal for her role in crimes against humanity during the violent suppression of student protests last year. The court concluded that she incited a series of extrajudicial killings by law enforcement, toppling her government in the process.
The verdict was announced on Monday by a panel of three judges, who stated that Hasina’s actions included incitement to violence against protestors and failing to penalize those responsible for the brutal crackdown that resulted in an estimated 1,400 deaths and around 25,000 injuries, as reported by the UN human rights office.
During the courtroom proceedings, which were attended by some victims’ families, the judges remarked, “It was crystal clear that she expressed her incitement to the activists of her party… and furthermore, she expressed that she ordered to kill and eliminate the protesting students.” Hasina faces five primary charges related to inciting murder, ordering the execution of protestors, and the use of excessive force against demonstrators. She has consistently denied these allegations.
The former Prime Minister, who ruled Bangladesh from 2009 until her ouster in 2024, has been residing in self-imposed exile in New Delhi since the protests last year led to significant political upheaval. Her absence during the verdict raised concerns about the potential for violence and unrest ahead of national elections anticipated for February 2025. Following the verdict, her lawyers condemned the trial, alleging serious violations of fair trial rights and due process, and have sought intervention from the United Nations.
Security measures were heightened in Dhaka before the ruling, reflecting rising tensions as violent incidents were reported. Police deployed armored vehicles and riot control teams around the courthouse amid fears of unrest. Hasina’s son warned that supporters would block the upcoming elections unless a ban on their party, the Awami League, was lifted, hinting at possible violent confrontations.
Hasina’s political narrative is steeped in the tumult of Bangladesh, with her leadership marked by significant economic growth alongside allegations of corruption and authoritarian governance. As the daughter of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the country’s founding father, she was deeply affected by the historical struggles for Bengali autonomy and has faced numerous political challenges throughout her career.
While her tenure saw marked advancements, human rights organizations criticized her administration for veering toward a one-party system, citing increased political violence and suppression of freedom of expression. Despite managing to quell earlier protests, Hasina’s rule has ended in a historic revolt led by younger generations in the country. With her party currently barred from political activities, the interim government argues that ongoing trials against Hasina and her allies are necessary for restoring accountability in Bangladesh’s democratic institutions.
This unfolding story reflects a pivotal moment in Bangladeshi politics and its implications for the future governance of the nation.