Sheikh Hasina Receives Death Sentence from Bangladesh Tribunal

Dhaka, Nov 17, 2025 – In a significant and contentious verdict, Bangladesh’s former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, 78, has been sentenced to death by the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) for alleged "crimes against humanity" carried out during the anti-government protests that led to her Awami League government's downfall last year.

The ruling, handed down by a tribunal chaired by Judge Golam Mortuza Mozumder, found Hasina guilty of three charges: inciting violence, ordering the killing of demonstrators, and failing to prevent the atrocities during the protests. Alongside her, former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal and ex-police chief Chowdhury Abdullah Al-Mamun were also sentenced for similar charges. Both Hasina and Kamal were tried while in exile, having left the country amidst the turmoil, while Mamun previously appeared in court before turning witness.

As the sentence was announced, the courtroom erupted with applause and tears from various attendees. Judge Mozumder stressed the gravity of the offenses, stating, "We have concluded that only one verdict is suitable – that is the sentence of death." The ICT clarified that Hasina cannot seek an appeal unless she returns to Bangladesh or is apprehended within a month.

Sheikh Hasina has been living in self-imposed exile in India since August 5, 2024, after massive protests erupted outside her residence in Dhaka. These demonstrations were sparked by accusations of government corruption and mismanagement and resulted in violent confrontations that reportedly left over 1,400 dead, according to UN reports. This exile marked the conclusion of her 15-year term as prime minister.

The tribunal's verdict signals a politically charged period in Bangladesh’s history, raising concerns regarding judicial fairness and the potential for future unrest. Numerous observers have criticized the tribunal for conducting trials in absentia, citing potential bias, particularly given Hasina's significant political clout and international ties.

The international community is closely watching the situation, as Hasina remains in a secure location in Delhi. Human rights organizations have expressed caution, pointing out that high-profile political trials often escalate domestic and regional tensions.

Sheikh Hasina’s conviction arrives at a pivotal moment for Bangladesh, which is facing increasing political instability, public protests, and social unrest. The nation must grapple with security challenges while addressing growing international attention.

This ruling could have extensive implications for not just Bangladesh’s political landscape, but also for international diplomacy, as global leaders and human rights advocates analyze the repercussions of this decision and the safety of a prominent exile.

As Bangladesh contemplates this unprecedented verdict, eyes across the globe are fixed on Dhaka and Delhi, eager to see the next developments in a story that has already transformed the country's political narrative.