DHAKA, BANGLADESH – In a landmark decision, Bangladesh’s International Crimes Tribunal has sentenced 78-year-old former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina Wajed to death for crimes against humanity. Former Interior Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal has also been sentenced to death in the same ruling.
Tribunal Verdict in Absentia
The court, located in Dhaka, delivered its verdict in Hasina Wajed’s absence, amid tight security arrangements. The tribunal found her guilty of multiple human rights violations, including ordering killings during political uprisings and failing to prevent widespread atrocities. According to the tribunal, Hasina Wajed committed crimes by issuing orders that led to killings, using drones, helicopters, and lethal weapons, and neglecting her responsibility to stop the violence.
Reactions and Legal Recourse
Following the verdict, celebrations were reportedly heard within the courtroom. Legal experts note that the death sentence can still be challenged in the Supreme Court of Bangladesh. Hasina Wajed’s son and advisor, Sajib Wajed, told Reuters a day before the verdict that the family would not appeal until a democratically elected government, including participation from the Awami League, takes office.
Political Violence in Bangladesh
A United Nations report states that between July 15 and August 5 of the previous year, government crackdowns on anti-government protests resulted in approximately 1,400 deaths and thousands injured, marking the worst political violence since Bangladesh’s independence in 1971. Hasina Wajed, who left Bangladesh for exile in New Delhi in August 2024, refused to return for trial, dismissing the proceedings as a “legal farce.”
Dhaka authorities placed 17,000 police officers on duty, with fortified checkpoints and armored vehicles deployed across key city intersections to ensure order during the verdict.
Court Findings Against Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal
Alongside Hasina, former Interior Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal was also found guilty of crimes against humanity and sentenced to death. Several other officials, including former police chief Chowdhury Abdullah Al Mamun, are in custody and have admitted to their crimes.
Hasina Wajed’s Statement
Following the verdict, Sheikh Hasina Wajed rejected the charges, asserting that all accusations against her are false. She urged her supporters not to panic and promised that “everything will be accounted for in due course.
”She stated:
“Allah gave me life, and Allah may take it. But I will continue to work for the people of my country. The sacrifices of my family and the hardships we faced will never be forgotten.”
Implications for Bangladesh
The ruling has intensified political tensions ahead of the February 2026 elections, with fears of escalating violence. Analysts say the verdict could deepen divisions and complicate efforts to restore political stability.
