Bangladesh’s former prime minister Sheikh Hasina, who has been living in exile in India since she was ousted in 2024, was sentenced to death on November 17 by the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) after being found guilty of ordering lethal force against student protesters in 2024. Bangladesh’s interim government has reiterated its demand for her extradition following her conviction for crimes against humanity.
Hasina, 78, has denied all charges, calling the trial politically motivated and biased. Hasina maintained that she was proud of her record on human rights and vowed to challenge the ruling in a fair tribunal. Her supporters claim that the trial was politically motivated and that the charges were fabricated to weaken the Awami League, the party she led for 15 years. They have vowed to continue rallying against the ruling, and some have called for Hasina to return to power through future elections.
On the other side, the families of the 1,400 protesters killed in the unrest have hailed the ruling as a necessary step toward justice. Many have expressed their belief that the conviction will bring closure, though some are skeptical about the ability to enforce the death sentence, particularly with Hasina’s continued exile in India.
The interim government, led by economist Muhammad Yunus, has expressed its intention to uphold the court’s verdict and enforce the death sentence. Yunus has stated that Hasina must face justice for her role in the violence that killed over 1,400 protesters.
However, India, where Hasina has been staying since her ouster in 2024, has yet to act on Bangladesh’s extradition request. India has shown no signs of changing its position, which has created a diplomatic impasse. While some Indian officials have expressed support for the human rights concerns raised by Bangladesh, the Indian government has refrained from taking any action to extradite Hasina.
The extradition request has added further tension to the already delicate relationship between Bangladesh and India.
The political impact of the verdict is being felt across Bangladesh where the Yunus-led interim government has been determined to maintain stability. The issue is expected to remain a point of contention in the coming months, particularly as Bangladesh prepares for national elections in 2026. With Hasina’s party banned, political tensions have been on the rise, particularly as the government pushes for Hasina’s extradition. The ruling has made the upcoming elections a crucial moment for the nation’s future.
Asia Pacific Newslog 