Expressing outrage over her death sentence, former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has characterized the International Crimes Tribunal’s (ICT) decision as a reflection of the ‘brazen and murderous intent’ of extremist elements within Bangladesh’s interim government. The tribunal found her guilty of crimes against humanity related to the violence that erupted in July-August 2024. In her initial reaction, Hasina asserted that the tribunal is politically biased and manipulated by an unelected administration.
She fiercely refuted the allegations of human rights abuses leveled against her government. Hasina proudly highlighted her administration’s track record, emphasizing advancements in human rights, economic development, and international standing. Key achievements she mentioned include bringing Bangladesh into the International Criminal Court, sheltering hundreds of thousands of Rohingya, expanding essential services like electricity and education, and fostering substantial GDP growth. She contended that these documented successes belie any notion of disregard for human rights, and drew a sharp contrast with the current leadership.
Hasina was handed a death sentence by the ICT for her alleged role in directing a forceful suppression of the student-led demonstrations that occurred last year. The tribunal also decreed that all of Hasina’s property within Bangladesh would be confiscated. In related sentences, former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal was also sentenced to death for crimes against humanity, while ex-Police Chief Chowdhury Abdullah Al-Mamun received a five-year prison sentence.
The widespread protests of 2024, which began over job quota issues, quickly broadened into a significant movement challenging Sheikh Hasina’s authority. These demonstrations led to significant unrest and property damage. The situation escalated to the point where protesters entered her Dhaka residence, leading to her urgent departure to India. An interim government, under Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, subsequently took charge, outlawing the Awami League and commencing in-absentia proceedings against Hasina.
