A Bangladesh court on Monday sentenced former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to death after finding her guilty of ordering a violent crackdown on a student-led uprising in 2024. The verdict concludes months of proceedings at the International Crimes Tribunal, Bangladesh’s domestic war crimes court in Dhaka.
Hasina, who was ousted last year, was tried in absentia after fleeing to India in August 2024. The court announced the ruling amid heavy security across the capital.
Political Stakes Ahead of Elections
The decision comes just months before parliamentary elections expected in early February. Hasina’s Awami League has already been barred from contesting, raising concerns that the ruling may intensify political unrest.
Her son and adviser, Sajeeb Wazed, told Reuters ahead of the verdict that the family would not file an appeal unless a “democratically elected government” took office with the Awami League’s participation. Although the ruling can be challenged in the Supreme Court, the political environment makes an appeal uncertain.
One Year Since Sheikh Hasina’s Fall: Bangladeshis Celebrate in the Streets
Allegations Linked to Worst Violence Since 1971
Prosecutors argued during the trial that Hasina directly ordered security forces to open fire on student protesters during the July–August 2024 uprising.
According to a United Nations report, as many as 1,400 people may have been killed between July 15 and August 5, 2024. Thousands more were injured—most from gunfire—making it the worst violence the country has seen since the 1971 war of independence.
Hasina’s state-appointed defence counsel maintained that the charges were baseless and appealed for her acquittal. Hasina herself dismissed the trial as politically motivated, calling the verdict “a foregone conclusion.”
Security Tightens Nationwide
Bangladesh has been on edge in the days leading up to the judgment. At least 30 crude bomb blasts and 26 vehicle arson incidents were reported nationwide, though no casualties occurred.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation as fears of fresh unrest grow in the wake of the landmark ruling.
