Former Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina Receives Death Sentence For Over Brutal Protests Crackdown in 2024

The International Crimes Tribunal in Bangladesh has sentenced former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to death. This verdict was delivered due to her alleged involvement in the violent suppression of protests in 2024. Alongside her, former home minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal also received a death sentence, while ex-police chief Chowdhury Abdullah Al-Mamun was sentenced to five years in prison.

Security measures have been heightened across Dhaka, with the army, police, and paramilitary forces deployed extensively. The tribunal's decision was broadcast live, drawing significant attention both locally and internationally. The tribunal found Hasina guilty on three counts: incitement, ordering killings and failing to prevent atrocities against protesters.

Sheikh Hasina's Role in Protest Suppression

According to the tribunal's findings, Sheikh Hasina ordered the use of helicopters and lethal weapons against protesters. Evidence presented included conversations between Hasina and other officials that confirmed these orders. The tribunal also highlighted that medical treatment was denied to injured protesters under her directive.

The tribunal judges quoted reports indicating that Hasina herself instructed the use of force during the protests. Her government allegedly threatened a doctor to alter the post-mortem report of Abu Sayed, a student activist whose death intensified the protests against her regime.

Reactions and Security Measures

A large crowd gathered outside Dhaka's International Crimes Tribunal as the verdict was announced. Security remains tight in Dhaka with shoot-at-sight orders issued for anyone involved in violent activities. The Dhaka Metropolitan Police is on high alert to prevent any unrest following the verdict.

The tribunal emphasized that Sheikh Hasina's actions were deliberate attempts to maintain power through forceful means. Her derogatory remarks about student protesters further fueled tensions during the 2024 demonstrations.

Public Broadcasts and Reactions

The live telecast of the sentencing attracted a significant audience at Dhaka University. The university's Central Student Union arranged for public viewing of the verdict, which was described as a historic moment by Ducsu Vice President Shadik Kayem on social media platforms.

In his statement, one judge noted that Sheikh Hasina used derogatory terms for students involved in protests, calling them "Razakars." This term enraged many and added fuel to an already volatile situation.

Judicial Findings

The tribunal concluded that Sheikh Hasina acted as the mastermind behind systematic killings during the protests. Reports indicated that bodies of victims were burned by police under her orders. Her government’s actions were deemed crimes against humanity by the ICT judges.

The court stressed that evidence against Hasina was overwhelming enough to warrant maximum punishment under any judicial system globally. Her hate speeches and incitements were central points in reaching this conclusion.

The ICT spared former police chief Chowdhury Abdullah Al-Mamun from capital punishment after he became a state witness. His testimony played a crucial role in establishing facts during the trial proceedings.