Bangladesh ousted ex-PM Sheikh Hasina sentenced to death for crimes against humanity

Verdict in the Trial of Former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina

This summary details the verdict in the trial of former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who faced charges of crimes against humanity. The trial stemmed from the killing of hundreds of people during a student-led uprising in July and August of the previous year, with Hasina accused of ordering the shootings. These protests ultimately led to the end of her 15-year tenure in office, after which she went into exile in India.

Key Concepts

• Crimes Against Humanity: Severe violations of human rights, including murder, extermination, enslavement, deportation, imprisonment, torture, rape, persecution, and other inhumane acts committed as part of a widespread or systematic attack directed against any civilian population.
• Verdict: A formal decision or judgment of a court or jury.
• Sentencing: The imposition of a penalty on a person convicted of a crime.
• Life Sentence: A prison sentence for the remainder of the convicted person's natural life.
• Death Sentence: A sentence of death imposed by a court of law.
• In Absentia: In the absence of a party, especially in legal proceedings.
• Extradition: The formal process by which one country surrenders an individual to another country for prosecution or punishment for crimes committed in the requesting country's jurisdiction.
• Tribunal: A court or judge with the authority to hear and decide cases.
• ICT (International Crimes Tribunal): A court established to try individuals for international crimes, such as genocide, war crimes, and crimes against humanity.

Verdict Details and Sentencing

The court in Dhaka delivered a verdict following a 50-page judgment that was being read for several hours. As of the reporting, Sheikh Hasina was found guilty on two counts:

• Count 1: Found guilty and sentenced to life imprisonment.
• Count 2: Found guilty and sentenced to death.

In addition to Hasina, other individuals were also sentenced:

• Home Minister: Found guilty on one count and given a death sentence. He is also reportedly out of the country.
• Former Police Chief: A key witness for the state, he was shown leniency. He was found guilty on one count but received a sentence of only 5 years.

Full details on the sentences for three other counts were still being spelled out in court. The chief prosecutor and the attorney general were expected to address the press shortly to make formal announcements.

Mood and Reactions in Bangladesh

The situation in Bangladesh was described as extremely tense, with heavy security presence across the country, particularly at key installations. Traffic in the city was minimal as people were glued to live telecasts of the proceedings.

• Supporters of Hasina: Some supporters took to the streets, engaging in vandalism of vehicles. Several arrests were made.
• Opponents of Hasina: Clashes occurred with the police when individuals attempting to destroy property belonging to Sheikh Hasina in a suburban area were stopped by law enforcement.
• Student Protesters (July Uprising): The students who led the July uprising were actively present, vowing to ensure the verdict was carried out and to pressure India for Hasina's extradition. They threatened demonstrations in front of the Indian High Commission if necessary.

Hasina's son, who served as an advisor in her government, issued a statement indicating they anticipated a death sentence but assured that his mother was safe in India and that the Indian government would ensure her security.

Risks of Violence and Retaliation

There were concerns about potential violence and retaliation from Hasina's supporters. While attempts to mobilize demonstrations in recent days had been largely unsuccessful due to police action and counter-protesters, there had been attacks on buses, trucks, and private vehicles. The apprehension of trouble contributed to the reduced traffic on the streets.

India's Stance on Extradition and Bilateral Relations

Professor Shreeta Datta, a specialist in South Asia studies, commented on the likelihood of Hasina's extradition from India. She stated that it was "almost absolutely nothing," emphasizing that India would not extradite her.

• India-Bangladesh Relations: The relationship between India and Bangladesh has been described as fragile over the past year and a half. Recent concerns, including reports linking a blast in Delhi to groups in Bangladesh, have added to the complexity. While both countries acknowledge the importance of their bilateral relationship, India is unlikely to change its position regarding Hasina.
• Diplomatic Position: India will need to manage its bilateral relations with Bangladesh at a different level, especially with upcoming elections in Bangladesh. From India's perspective, Sheikh Hasina is considered a "guest," and external pressures are not expected to alter New Delhi's stance.

Interpretation of the Tribunal's Decision and Historical Significance

Professor Datta noted that the verdict was largely expected, given the prevailing mood and the weeks of trial proceedings. She highlighted that this conviction marks an unprecedented event in Bangladesh's political history.

• Comparison to Past ICT Trials: While ICT trials were utilized during Hasina's tenure against Jamaat leaders, questions were raised about those proceedings. However, it is generally agreed that the current trial proceedings have adhered to the legal system in place.
• Evidence of Crimes: The charges, particularly those related to the July uprising where security forces opened fire on unarmed students, are widely believed to be substantiated. Recordings were reportedly played in court, allegedly showing Hasina giving direct orders for shootouts.
• Counter-Narrative: The Awami League, a powerful party in Bangladesh, is expected to attempt to build a counter-narrative. However, the general belief among Bangladeshis is that the crimes were indeed committed by Sheikh Hasina.
• Broader Charges: The current trial is not solely focused on the July uprising but also encompasses other incidents and charges of crimes against humanity that have come to light regarding her 12 to 15 years in power.

Conclusion

The verdict against former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina represents a significant and unprecedented moment in Bangladesh's history. While she has been sentenced to life imprisonment and death in absentia, her extradition from India is highly unlikely, posing potential diplomatic challenges for India. The situation in Bangladesh remains tense, with security forces on high alert and the potential for unrest from her supporters. The legal proceedings and the evidence presented suggest a strong belief among many that the crimes against humanity were indeed committed.