Bangladesh Tribunal Sentences Ex-PM Sheikh Hasina to Death for 2024 Protest Crackdown

In a significant legal development, Bangladesh"s International Crimes Tribunal has convicted former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina of crimes against humanity, sentencing her to death in absentia. This ruling stems from her alleged role in the violent suppression of student protests that occurred between July and August 2024, which resulted in numerous fatalities. A United Nations report estimates that the crackdown led to the deaths of up to 1,400 individuals, primarily due to gunfire from security forces.

Key Details

Sheikh Hasina, who has been in exile in India since fleeing the uprising, has denounced the tribunal"s proceedings as a "kangaroo court." Alongside Hasina, former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal has also received the death penalty for his involvement in the protest suppression. Additionally, Chowdhury Abdullah Al-Mamun, the former police chief, has been sentenced to life imprisonment for his role in the crackdown.

The protests, which were primarily led by students, erupted in response to government policies and alleged human rights violations. The violent response from security forces has drawn international condemnation and raised concerns over the state of democracy and human rights in Bangladesh.

Following the tribunal"s ruling, Hasina"s political party, the Awami League, has been banned from participating in the upcoming elections scheduled for February 2026. The ban was imposed under the leadership of interim leader Muhammad Yunus, further escalating tensions within the country. In response to the tribunal"s decision, the Awami League has announced a nationwide shutdown, which has heightened security measures across Bangladesh amid fears of potential unrest.

Background

Sheikh Hasina has been a prominent figure in Bangladeshi politics, having served multiple terms as Prime Minister. Her tenure has been marked by significant economic growth but also by allegations of authoritarianism and human rights abuses. The protests in 2024 were part of a larger wave of dissent against her government, which critics accuse of stifling opposition and curtailing freedoms.

The International Crimes Tribunal was established to address war crimes and crimes against humanity, particularly in relation to the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War. However, its legitimacy has been questioned by various human rights organizations, which argue that the tribunal lacks independence and fairness.

What"s Next

The sentencing of Sheikh Hasina and her associates is likely to have profound implications for Bangladesh"s political landscape. The Awami League"s announcement of a nationwide shutdown indicates that the party may mobilize its supporters in protest against the tribunal"s ruling. The potential for unrest raises concerns about public safety and the government"s ability to maintain order.

As previously reported, the political climate in Bangladesh remains volatile, with ongoing debates about the future of democracy in the country. The international community will be closely monitoring the situation, particularly in light of the UN"s findings regarding the deaths during the protests. The outcome of the upcoming elections in February 2026 will also be critical in determining the direction of Bangladeshi politics moving forward.

For more on related coverage, see our article on recent developments in international politics.