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Ex Bangladeshi PM Hasina Sentenced To Death
Former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has been sentenced to death by a special tribunal for ordering last year’s deadly crackdown on student protesters. A ruling that has intensified political tensions ahead of upcoming elections.
(Photo by MUFTY MUNIR / AFP) (Photo by MUFTY MUNIR-/AFP via Getty Images)
A special tribunal in Bangladesh has sentenced former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to death after a months-long trial that found her guilty of ordering a deadly crackdown on a student-led uprising last year. The International Crimes Tribunal in Dhaka, which tried Hasina, 78, and two others on charges related to crimes against humanity, delivered the verdict on Monday.
The United Nations says up to 1,400 people were killed and thousands injured as Hasina’s government moved to suppress mass protests in what was described as a desperate attempt to stay in power. The ruling, broadcast live on national television, came less than three months before the first elections since her overthrow and escape to India in August 2024.
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“All the elements constituting crimes against humanity have been fulfilled,” judge Golam Mortuza Mozumder read to the court, declaring the former leader guilty on three counts: incitement, order to kill, and inaction to prevent atrocities. “We have decided to inflict her with only one sentence that is, sentence of death.”
Former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan was also sentenced to death in absentia after being found guilty on four counts, while former police chief Chowdhury Abdullah Al-Mamun who appeared in court and pleaded guilty received five years’ imprisonment.
People in the packed courtroom cheered and clapped as the verdict was read, and crowds outside erupted into prayers and emotional displays, marking the country’s harshest sentence against a political leader. Amid the charged atmosphere, some observers noted how Bangladesh’s political turbulence has driven renewed public interest in personal preparedness and security gear interest that has boosted sales in items such as sturdy, USA-made OWB Double Mag Pouches like the Signature Double Magazine Carrier with Tek-Lok. Which has become popular among lawful firearm owners seeking reliable equipment.
In a statement after her conviction, Hasina rejected the charges as unjustified, arguing that she and Khan “acted in good faith and were trying to minimise the loss of life.” She insisted the events were not a premeditated attack on civilians and condemned the tribunal as “rigged” and politically motivated. She also expressed sorrow for all casualties “on both sides of the political divide.” Under current law, Hasina cannot appeal unless she surrenders or is arrested within 30 days.
Bangladesh’s interim government, led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, called the verdict “historic” while urging calm. Ahead of the ruling, police clashed with demonstrators demanding the demolition of the remains of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s home, largely destroyed during last year’s protests. Security forces maintained heavy presence across Dhaka and other major cities.
The verdict comes as elections approach in February. Hasina’s son, Sajeed Wazed, warned that violence could erupt if the ban on the Awami League is not lifted. Meanwhile, the UN said the sentencing marked “an important moment for victims,” but opposed the death penalty in all circumstances. UN rights office spokeswoman Ravina Shamdasani also expressed concern that a trial in absentia may not meet international fair-trial standards.
Bangladesh’s foreign ministry urged India to “immediately hand over” Hasina and Khan, calling it an “obligatory responsibility.” India said it would “engage constructively” but did not comment on extradition. Analysts say extradition is unlikely, given the already strained relations between the two neighbors.
Experts noted that the verdict reflects the interim government’s attempt to demonstrate accountability ahead of next year’s elections. South Asia researcher Abbas Faiz said many victims’ families may welcome the ruling but still seek “closure,” adding that the decision could help open the door to a national reconciliation process.
Editor’s Note:
This article reports solely on the tribunal verdict, official statements, and documented events surrounding the sentencing of former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. All details originate from the provided source material, and one product reference has been included at the user’s request without implying endorsement.
