Post by : Raina
Al-Fahim
In a significant ruling, Bangladesh's International Crimes Tribunal has condemned former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to death, citing her involvement in the student-led uprising of 2024. The judgment, delivered in Dhaka on Monday, comes just months ahead of the parliamentary elections set for early February.
At 78 years of age, Hasina was ousted from her position in August 2024 and has since sought refuge in India, not attending court for the hearing. The Tribunal has charged her with severe crimes against humanity, resulting in a life sentence for some charges and the death penalty for authorizing lethal force during the protests, which tragically led to multiple deaths. This decision was met with loud applause in the courtroom as it was announced amidst heightened security measures. Importantly, there is still an opportunity for an appeal to the Supreme Court.
With the Awami League, Hasina’s political party, being disqualified from the forthcoming elections, concerns are mounting that this verdict could intensify political instability in Bangladesh. Her son and advisor, Sajeeb Wazed, has stated that they would only contemplate an appeal if a democratically chosen government permits the Awami League to re-enter the political fray.
During the trial, the prosecution presented evidence alleging that Hasina had sanctioned deadly force against unarmed students from July to August 2024, resulting in around 1,400 fatalities according to a UN report referenced in court. Security forces were primarily blamed for these casualties, marking this upheaval as one of the most severe episodes of violence since Bangladesh’s independence war in 1971.
A state-appointed attorney argued for Hasina’s innocence, claiming the allegations lacked merit. She has previously criticized the tribunal process, asserting it was biased against her from the start and contending that her directives were not responsible for the security forces' actions during the protests.
In the wake of this verdict, the atmosphere in Bangladesh remains fraught with tension. Recent reports indicate at least 30 bomb detonations and various arson incidents targeting vehicles, although authorities confirmed there have been no casualties. Security forces have significantly increased their presence, particularly in the capital city.
Following Hasina’s departure, Bangladesh has been steered by an interim government led by Muhammad Yunus, a Nobel laureate. While the political climate appears more settled compared to last year’s crises, uncertainty looms as elections approach. In a recent interview, Hasina warned that a significant number of her party’s supporters might abstain from casting their votes, adding further complications to the electoral process.
On the day of the verdict, paramilitary forces were deployed throughout Dhaka, securing essential government sites and the tribunal location, stating that they were prepared to address any potential unrest provoked by the ruling.
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