Former Bangladesh prime minister Sheikh Hasina has strongly rejected the death sentence issued against her by a Dhaka tribunal on Monday, calling the verdict “rigged, preordained, and politically motivated.”
Hasina, who has been living in India since her ouster in August 2024, said she was denied a fair chance to defend herself and insisted she is not afraid to face her accusers before a legitimately constituted court.
Hasina Condemns Tribunal’s Decision
The 78-year-old former leader was convicted on three counts of crimes against humanity, including:
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Incitement to violence
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Ordering killings
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Failing to prevent atrocities during the student-led uprising that ended her rule
As the verdict was read out by Judge Golam Mortuza Mozumder in a packed Dhaka courtroom, supporters erupted in cheers. The ruling was broadcast live across Bangladesh, drawing intense national and international attention.
The judgment arrives just months ahead of Bangladesh’s planned national elections in February 2026, the first since Hasina’s removal from office.
Hasina Says She Was Denied Fair Trial
In a statement issued shortly after the ruling, Hasina said:
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She was not given a fair opportunity to present her defense
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The tribunal lacked legitimacy and due process
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The decision was biased and politically motivated
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The court was “established and presided over by an unelected government with no democratic mandate”
Hasina added that she remains open to facing the allegations in a proper tribunal where evidence is evaluated transparently and impartially.
Hasina Refused to Appear in Court
Despite multiple summons, Hasina did not return to Bangladesh to attend the proceedings. She has repeatedly rejected the authority of the interim government, describing it as an “interim junta.”
The verdict is expected to escalate political tensions in Bangladesh, where supporters of Hasina’s party, the Awami League, are already protesting what they say is a crackdown on democratic rights.
