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Ousted Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has been sentenced to death by the International Crimes Tribunal after being found guilty of five charges related to crimes against humanity. The verdict follows allegations that her administration ordered violent crackdowns on student protesters in 2023, resulting in mass killings.
Sheikh Hasina Sentenced to Death for Crimes Against Humanity
Dhaka: The International Crimes Tribunal has sentenced Bangladesh's ousted Prime Minister, Sheikh Hasina, to death after finding her guilty of crimes against humanity. Following the verdict, tensions have gripped the country, and security has been tightened. Hasina's party, the Awami League, has called for a shutdown to protest the decision.
The case relates to the July 2023 student movement, in which 1,400 people were allegedly killed by security forces. The prosecution claimed that Hasina played a key role in the violence and launched a special operation to suppress the protests.
Bangladesh Ex-PM Sheikh Hasina sentenced to death over 2024 student crackdown
The charges against Hasina and her associates included serious charges such as murder, torture, issuing orders, inciting violence, and failing to prevent human rights violations. The tribunal found Hasina guilty on all five counts.
Hasina's government and armed units of her ally, the Awami League, are alleged to have played a role in murder, torture, and other inhumane acts against civilians. The prosecution also alleges that they instigated, facilitated, and failed to prevent these crimes.
Drones, and Lethal Weapons
It is alleged that Hasina ordered the use of helicopters, drones, and lethal weapons to suppress protesters. The prosecution claims that the Home Minister and the Police Chief helped implement this order.
Hasina is also accused of ordering the killing of Abu Sayeed, a student protesting near Begum Rokeya University in Rangpur. She is also alleged to have made violent statements and directed police officers to use lethal weapons.
The prosecution claims that the shooting of six unarmed protesters in Chankharpul, Dhaka, on August 5th was due to the orders, instigation, and conspiracy of Hasina and others.
It is alleged that on the same day, six students were shot in the Ashulia area, five of whom were later burned, and one was burned alive.
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According to the law, the convicted person has the right to appeal to the Supreme Court, but to do so, Hasina would either have to be arrested or surrender.
Hasina is currently in India, making it difficult for her to initiate legal proceedings. The interim government has indicated that the decision will be implemented without delay.
