Bangladesh Ex-PM Sheikh Hasina Sentenced to Death for Crimes Against Humanity

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A Bangladesh court has handed down a death sentence to former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina for her alleged role in orchestrating violence against protesters in 2024. The International Crimes Tribunal found Hasina, along with former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal, guilty of committing crimes against humanity, including ordering the use of drones and helicopters to fire on civilian crowds. The court convicted the duo of working together to commit atrocities during the 2024 Bangladesh protests, which led to Hasina's ouster. Hasina was tried in absentia, as she is currently in exile in India. Her co-accused, Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal, is also in exile, while former Inspector General of Police Chowdhury Abdullah Al-Mamun pleaded guilty and will receive a lenient sentence. The verdict was announced amidst heightened tensions in Bangladesh, with security forces deployed across the country. The Awami League party, led by Hasina's son Sajeeb Wazed, had called for a shutdown across the nation, warning of potential violence if the ban on their party is not lifted. Hasina was facing five charges, including orchestrating mass killings of protesters, using helicopters and drones to fire on civilians, and incinerating bodies to destroy evidence. In a pre-conviction statement, Hasina claimed she was innocent and accused the interim government of seizing power illegitimately. Her son, Sajeeb Wazed, echoed her sentiments, warning of potential violence and hinting that the party's supporters would not allow national elections to proceed without their participation. The verdict marks a significant development in Bangladesh's ongoing political turmoil, with the country bracing for potential unrest and violence in the coming days.