In a strong denouncement, former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has declared her death sentence, handed down by Bangladesh’s International Crimes Tribunal, as the product of a ‘rigged’ and ‘unconstitutional’ process. Hasina asserted that the tribunal was established by an illegitimate, unelected government with the explicit aim of politically persecuting the Awami League. She contrasted this with the current regime’s governance, accusing it of fostering ‘chaos, violence, and social regression’ under Dr. Mohammad Yunus, leading to economic decline and attacks on fundamental rights and marginalized communities. Hasina categorically denied any involvement in ordering killings during the July and August 2025 unrest. She challenged the tribunal’s claims of impartiality, stating that its ‘international’ status was undermined by the silencing of judges and lawyers who might have shown sympathy towards her previous government. Her defense was further hampered, she claimed, by being denied a fair hearing and the right to legal counsel of her choice. The country has endured substantial violence leading up to this verdict, with significant public disorder and loss of life. Hasina characterized these events as an uncontrollable spiral rather than a deliberate targeting of civilians. She concluded by urging the International Criminal Court to review her case, expressing confidence that international scrutiny would vindicate her.
