The International Crimes Tribunal in Bangladesh has convicted ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, former home minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal, and former police chief Chowdhury Abdullah Al-Mamun of crimes against humanity committed during the 2024 student protests that led to the collapse of Hasina’s regime.
The verdict, delivered on Monday amid high security across Dhaka, follows an order by the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus to tighten security in the capital and neighbouring districts as tensions rise.
Charges Against Hasina and Her Aides
The trio faced five major charges, including:
- Orchestrating mass killings of protesters in Dhaka
- Ordering the use of helicopters and drones to fire on civilian crowds
- The murder of student activist Abu Sayed
- Incineration of bodies in Ashulia to destroy evidence
- Coordinated killings of demonstrators in Chankharpul
Hasina denied all allegations, calling the trial “rigged” and “politically motivated.” Her trial was conducted in absentia, as she has lived in exile in New Delhi since August 2024.
Key Developments
- The tribunal sentenced Sheikh Hasina and Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal to death. Former IGP Al-Mamun received five years in prison after pleading guilty earlier.
- Judge Golam Mortuza Mozumder said Hasina was guilty of incitement, ordering killings, and failing to prevent atrocities, announcing a single punishment: death.
- Hasina already faces multiple corruption cases, including charges involving her daughter Saima Wazed and niece Tulip Siddiq—all of which they deny.
- Bangladesh has witnessed days of violent unrest, including bomb and arson attacks linked to banned Awami League protests.
- Rows of armed police, riot units, and paramilitary forces have been stationed across Dhaka.
- The Awami League continues to push for mass protests and strikes, warning that “Hindus are in danger” under the Muhammad Yunus–led interim government.
- Ahead of the verdict, Hasina’s son Sajeeb Wazed warned of escalating demonstrations if the ban on Awami League remains in place.