Sheikh Hasina, Bangladesh’s former Prime Minister, has been sentenced to death for crimes against humanity. This verdict comes after the violent crackdown on student protests that ultimately upended her government.
A panel from the International Crimes Tribunal found Hasina guilty of provoking a significant number of extrajudicial killings by law enforcement. The courtroom erupted in applause as the judges announced their decision. They stated that it was evident she incited violence against protestors, even issuing orders to “eliminate” them.
These protests initially started peacefully as students demanded fair job quotas, but they escalated into a nationwide movement calling for Hasina’s resignation. The UN reported that up to 1,400 people may have died during a government crackdown, with around 25,000 others injured. Hasina has been living in self-imposed exile in India since the protests forced her out of power in August 2024.
Despite the verdict, Hasina called the tribunal “biased,” claiming it lacked legitimacy as it was established by an unelected government. She vehemently denies all accusations and defends her record on human rights.
Political analysts worry this verdict might spark instability as Bangladesh heads towards elections in February. Hasina’s son recently warned that protests could escalate if their party is not allowed to participate.
Historically, Hasina’s political career has been marked by both significant economic achievements and deep concerns over human rights abuses. Under her rule, while the country saw notable growth, accusations of a declining democracy and authoritarianism surfaced. A recent study by Human Rights Watch revealed ongoing government crackdowns, including arrests and intimidation of critics, creating an environment of fear.
Recently, protests erupted as demonstrators expressed their anger towards the Hasina family’s legacy. Videos showed crowds demanding the destruction of her family’s old residence while celebrating the court’s decision. In stark contrast, other groups celebrated at Dhaka University, signaling divided public sentiment.
Looking ahead, the interim government, led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, emphasizes the need for accountability and rebuilding trust in democratic institutions. Meanwhile, Hasina’s supporters argue that these trials are politically motivated to eliminate her from the political landscape.
As the country braces for potential unrest, the future of Bangladesh’s democracy remains uncertain. For more on human rights issues in Bangladesh, you can refer to the report by Human Rights Watch.
