Bangladesh's Ex-PM Sheikh Hasina Gets Death Sentence

Former Bangladesh Leader Sentenced to Death for Protest Crackdown

In a landmark verdict that has sent shockwaves through South Asia, Bangladesh's former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has been sentenced to death for crimes against humanity related to her role in the violent suppression of student protests last year. The 78-year-old leader, who ruled Bangladesh for 15 years until her ouster in 2024, was convicted in absentia by the International Crimes Tribunal in Dhaka on November 17, 2025.

Deadly Crackdown and UN Report

The conviction stems from Hasina's alleged role in ordering security forces to use lethal force against protesters during what became known as the July Revolution of 2024. According to United Nations estimates, between 800 and 1,400 people were killed during the government crackdown, with most victims shot by security forces. The protests began as peaceful demonstrations against government job quotas but escalated into nationwide demands for Hasina's resignation after security forces opened fire on student demonstrators.

"This verdict was welcomed with cheers both inside and outside the courtroom," reported Devi Boerema, correspondent for South Asia. "For the families of the victims, it brings a sense of justice."

Leaked Audio and Evidence

The prosecution's case relied heavily on a leaked telephone conversation in which Hasina was heard telling an unidentified person that she had ordered security forces to use "deadly weapons" against demonstrators. She reportedly stated that troops should shoot "wherever they find the demonstrators." This audio evidence, first reported by NOS in July 2025, proved crucial in establishing her direct involvement in ordering the crackdown.

Political Fallout and Regional Tensions

Hasina, who has been living in self-imposed exile in New Delhi since August 2024, immediately denounced the verdict as "biased and politically motivated." In a statement from India, she claimed she had "lost control of the situation" during the protests but denied any pre-planned attack on civilians.

The verdict has created significant diplomatic tensions between Bangladesh and India. CNN reported that Bangladesh's interim government has repeatedly requested Hasina's extradition, but India has refused to hand over its political ally. "The chance that India will extradite a loyal ally knowing that the death penalty awaits is very small," noted correspondent Boerema.

Other Convictions and Security Concerns

The tribunal also sentenced former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal to death in absentia, while former police chief Chowdhury Abdullah Al-Mamun received a five-year prison sentence after cooperating with investigators. The judge explained that although Al-Mamun had facilitated the violence, his cooperation with the court constituted mitigating circumstances.

Security remains tight across Bangladesh as Hasina's supporters have vowed to protest the verdict. Newsweek reported that her Awami League party called for nationwide protests, leading to security crackdowns including "shoot-on-sight" orders against arsonists. The predominantly Muslim nation of 170 million people is bracing for potential political chaos ahead of national elections scheduled for February 2026.

Historical Context and Tribunal Origins

Ironically, the International Crimes Tribunal that convicted Hasina was originally established by her own government in 2010 to prosecute war crimes committed during Bangladesh's independence war. The court has now turned its focus on the leader who created it, marking a dramatic reversal in Bangladesh's political landscape.

The verdict represents a significant moment in Bangladesh's turbulent political history and raises important questions about accountability for state violence and the future of democracy in the South Asian nation.