Bangladesh Ex-PM Sheikh Hasina Sentenced to Death Over Crackdown on 2024 Uprising

Bangladesh Ex-PM Sheikh Hasina Sentenced to Death Over Crackdown on 2024 Uprising
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Bangladesh’s deposed prime minister Sheikh Hasina has been sentenced to death in absentia for crimes against humanity linked to last year’s student-led uprising, The Guardian reported. A three-judge panel of the country’s international crimes tribunal found Hasina guilty of incitement, issuing lethal orders and failing to prevent atrocities during a sweeping crackdown on anti-government demonstrations.

Reading the verdict, Justice Golam Mortuza Mozumder said Hasina had authorised the use of drones, helicopters and live ammunition against civilians. Hasina, who fled to India in August 2024, has rejected the charges, calling the tribunal politically motivated and denying she was given a fair hearing. Her co-accused, former home minister Asaduzzaman Khan, also received a death sentence, while ex-police chief Chowdhury Abdullah al-Mamun was shown leniency after turning state witness.

The verdict sparked emotional scenes in the courtroom as families of victims welcomed the judgment. The UN human rights office said the ruling marked a significant moment for victims but reiterated its opposition to the death penalty. Authorities in Dhaka had tightened security ahead of the decision amid rising political tensions and reports of crude bomb attacks across the capital.

The 2024 movement, which began as a student protest, evolved into a mass revolt against Hasina’s 15-year rule—marked by documented abuses including disappearances, torture and the use of live fire. The UN estimates as many as 1,400 people were killed during the unrest. The interim government led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus had pledged to prosecute those responsible. Bangladesh is expected to hold its first post-Hasina election in February, with the Awami League barred from participating.