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Bangladesh is on the brink of major turmoil as the International Crimes Tribunal is set to pronounce its verdict against former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina today, with prosecutors seeking the death penalty. The decision will be broadcast live in Dhaka amid heightened tensions, violent protests, arson, and crude bomb attacks.
Tension Explodes in Bangladesh Ahead of Hasina Verdict
Dhaka: Bangladesh is today in the midst of intense tension and political turmoil. The International Crimes Tribunal will deliver a historic verdict today on alleged crimes against former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. The verdict will be broadcast live on large screens in Dhaka and also broadcast on Facebook. Ahead of the verdict, incidents of violence, arson, and improvised explosive devices (IED) have been reported in several parts of the country.
Mohammad Yunus's interim government has taken strict measures to control the situation. The Dhaka Metropolitan Police have issued orders to shoot on sight against violent mobs or arsonists. Authorities have tightened security overnight, and the army, paramilitary forces, and police have been instructed to increase vigilance.
Dhaka Police Commissioner SM Sajat Ali said, "Anyone who sets a bus on fire or attacks with improvised explosive devices will be shot."
Court to deliver verdict against Sheikh Hasina on 17 Nov; Bangladesh on high alert
Before the verdict, Sheikh Hasina's party, the Awami League, has been banned and will not be able to contest the elections. Meanwhile, Sheikh Hasina released an audio message, saying that the people will punish those who perpetrate injustice.
Sheikh Hasina said, "I am alive, I will remain alive, and I will stand with the people of my country. The criminals will be punished."
78-year-old Hasina's son, Sajeeb Wazed, said that the verdict is coming against him and he could be sentenced to death. Wazed warned that if the ban on the party is not lifted, Awami League supporters could disrupt the February national elections. He claimed that his mother is safe in India and that India is providing her full protection.
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In Dhaka, there was a homemade bomb attack and arson outside the home of Yunus's advisor, Syed Rizwana Hasan. Party workers and mobs also resorted to violence in several cities, including Cox's Bazar. Since November 10, Dhaka has seen several covert attacks, including a bomb blast outside the Grameen Bank headquarters.
A security alert is in place across the country ahead of the two-day shutdown proposed by the Awami League. Fears are high that the situation in Bangladesh could escalate further around the decision.
