The International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) of Bangladesh will announce its verdict on Monday, November 17, in the case against ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who faces five counts of crimes against humanity related to the 2024 student protest crackdown in Dhaka.
Prosecutors have demanded the death penalty for Hasina, who has been living in India since her ouster, alleging that she ordered the use of deadly force against protesters.
Trial Overview
Hasina, along with former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal and ex-Inspector General of Police (IGP) Chowdhury Abdullah Al-Mamun, was tried in absentia after being declared fugitives by the court.
The prosecution argued that the trio ordered widespread violence and repression during last year’s protests, which began as a student movement and escalated into one of the deadliest episodes in Bangladesh’s political history.
According to the United Nations, nearly 1,400 people were killed, while Bangladesh’s Health Advisory Board reported over 800 deaths and 14,000 injuries.
“Deserved 1,400 Death Sentences”: Prosecutor
Chief prosecutor Mohammad Tajul Islam told the tribunal that Sheikh Hasina’s intent was to “cling to power permanently” and described her as a “hardened criminal” who showed “no remorse” for the violence.
“She deserves 1,400 death sentences for each life lost. Since that is not humanly possible, we demand at least one,” he said during his closing statement.
The hearings concluded on October 23 after 28 working days and 54 witness testimonies were recorded.
Charges Against Sheikh Hasina
Sheikh Hasina faces five key charges, including:
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Murder, attempted murder, and torture of civilians.
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Ordering the extermination of peaceful protesters.
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Issuing inflammatory remarks and authorizing the use of deadly weapons.
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Direct involvement in the shooting deaths of six unarmed students.
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Crimes against humanity under Bangladesh’s ICT Act.
Bangladesh on High Alert Ahead of Verdict
Security has been tightened across Dhaka, with army troops deployed around the tribunal complex. Schools have shifted to online classes, and public transport has been disrupted due to a nationwide lockdown called by the Awami League, Hasina’s former ruling party.
The capital has witnessed crude bombings and arson attacks in recent days, heightening fears of renewed unrest as the verdict date nears.
Authorities have urged citizens to remain calm and avoid speculation as Bangladesh prepares for one of its most significant political judgments in recent history.
