Bangladesh Tribunal Sentences Sheikh Hasina to Death Amid Political Turmoil

Post by : Raina Nasser

Dhaka, Bangladesh – November 17, 2025: The International Crimes Tribunal of Bangladesh has issued a death sentence to former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina for her involvement in crimes against humanity during last year's student-led protests that resulted in the fall of her Awami League administration. The tribunal also found two of her aides, former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal and former police chief Chowdhury Abdullah Al-Mamun, guilty in connection with the events.

The court determined Hasina was culpable on three charges: inciting violence, ordering killings, and neglecting her duty to prevent severe human rights violations against the student demonstrators across the nation. This ruling follows a prolonged trial that scrutinized her government's violent reaction to protests throughout July and August 2024, during which security forces reportedly employed lethal tactics, including drones and live ammunition, against the protesters.

Charges and Court Findings

At 78, Hasina faced accusations of orchestrating the "extermination" of student protesters and making incendiary declarations that labeled them as "Razakars," a derogatory term. The tribunal noted that she directed law enforcement to utilize drones, helicopters, and deadly weapons in operations against demonstrators.

While former Home Minister Kamal and police chief Mamun faced charges as well, Mamun received leniency for his cooperation during the investigation, whereas Hasina and Kamal were tried in absentia as fugitives.

The tribunal revealed that between mid-July and mid-August 2024, approximately 1,400 individuals lost their lives during what is referred to as the "July Uprising," a figure corroborated by a United Nations human rights report. Eyewitnesses provided accounts of orchestrated assaults by factions aligned with the Awami League, such as Chhatra League and Yuva League, against student bodies nationwide.

Exile and Extradition Requests

Following the escalation of civil unrest on August 4, 2024, Hasina fled to India, where she continues to reside in exile. Kamal is similarly believed to have sought refuge in India. The interim government, overseen by Muhammad Yunus, has formally sought her extradition, yet India has not yet replied to the request.

Chief Prosecutor Mohammad Tajul Islam characterized Hasina as the "main architect" behind the violence, while her supporters argue that the allegations stem from political motivations.

Heightened Tensions and Security Precautions

In anticipation of the tribunal's decision, Bangladesh experienced an increase in security measures throughout key cities. The Dhaka Metropolitan Police issued orders to shoot anyone engaged in arson, bombings, or threats to civilian and security personnel. Dhaka’s streets were largely vacant, and security forces, including army units and riot police, were positioned around the ICT-BD complex.

The disbanded Awami League called for a two-day shutdown in protest, further escalating fears of unrest following the legal judgement.

Global Significance and Future Implications

This extraordinary ruling represents a pivotal chapter in Bangladesh's political narrative, establishing a precedent by sentencing a former prime minister for alleged crimes against humanity. The implications of this verdict are set to reverberate through national politics, potentially igniting protests, encouraging diplomatic dialogues, and prompting a deeper examination of the country’s legal and political frameworks.

The execution order for Sheikh Hasina highlights the urgency of the student-led revolts that unfolded in Bangladesh in 2024, alongside the tribunal’s commitment to accountability for those in power accused of abusing their authority. With Hasina currently in exile and public unrest looming, Bangladesh prepares to navigate the complexities arising from this landmark legal decision.