A Bangladeshi court on Monday handed former prime minister Sheikh Hasina a death sentence, ruling she was responsible for ordering a deadly crackdown on a student-led uprising last year. The historic judgment comes months after Hasina was forced from power and fled to India in August 2024.
The verdict, delivered by the International Crimes Tribunal in Dhaka, concluded that Hasina directed security forces to use lethal force during the July–August 2024 protests violence that killed up to 1,400 people, according to a United Nations report. Thousands more were injured, making it the country’s worst unrest since the 1971 independence war.
Sheikh Hasina also received a life sentence under charges of crimes against humanity. The decision was announced amid heavy security, and supporters inside the courtroom were seen cheering as the death sentence was read out.
Hasina’s party, the Awami League, has already been barred from contesting the upcoming elections. Political observers warn that the verdict may fuel fresh tensions across the country.
Although Hasina is allowed to appeal in the Supreme Court, her son and adviser Sajeeb Wazed told Reuters they would not pursue an appeal unless a freely elected government one in which the Awami League can participate is in place.
During the trial, prosecutors argued they had strong evidence showing Hasina issued direct orders to fire on protesting students. Her state appointed defence lawyer dismissed the allegations as unfounded and called for her acquittal.
Before the ruling, Hasina criticised the trial process, saying the outcome was “already decided” and questioning the fairness of the Tribunal.
Authorities have deployed strict security measures nationwide as the country braces for potential unrest following the court’s decision.
