A court in Dhaka has delivered an unprecedented verdict against Bangladesh's deposed prime minister, sentencing Sheikh Hasina to death in absentia for crimes against humanity.
The Deadly Crackdown That Led to Conviction
The conviction stems from a violent crackdown on student-led protests that occurred last year. Sheikh Hasina, who was serving as prime minister at the time, has been found responsible for authorising security forces to use lethal force against demonstrators.
The Guardian's South Asia correspondent Hannah Ellis-Peterson has been closely following the case and explains that the charges relate specifically to the government's response to the uprising. The court determined that the scale of violence against protesters constituted crimes against humanity under international law.
Unprecedented Sentencing and Its Implications
This landmark ruling marks the first time a former Bangladeshi leader has received a death sentence for such charges. The Dhaka court proceeded with the trial despite Hasina's absence from the country following her removal from power.
Legal experts note the extraordinary nature of trying a former head of government in absentia, particularly for capital offences. The verdict sends shockwaves through Bangladesh's political establishment and raises questions about due process in politically charged cases.
What This Means for Bangladesh's Future
The sentencing creates immediate uncertainty about Bangladesh's political stability and international relationships. Neighbouring India, which has historically maintained close ties with Bangladesh, now faces diplomatic challenges regarding how to respond to the verdict against its former ally.
Analysts suggest this development could further polarise Bangladeshi society between Hasina's supporters and those who believe justice has been served for the violent suppression of protests. The coming weeks will reveal whether this verdict strengthens the rule of law or deepens political divisions in the South Asian nation.
