Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has been sentenced to death in absentia by the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) on 17 November 2025. She was convicted of crimes against humanity for allegedly ordering a violent crackdown on the 2024 student-led protests, in which hundreds were killed and many injured.
Hasina has been living in exile in India since her government was removed. The tribunal described her as the “mastermind” behind the suppression and held her responsible for authorising lethal force.
The verdict comes ahead of the February 2026 elections, from which Hasina’s party, the Awami League, has been barred. Her supporters claim the trial was politically motivated, while the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus argues it fulfills its promise to ensure accountability for the 2024 violence.
The ruling marks the first time a Bangladeshi head of government has been sentenced to death for crimes against humanity. It is expected to draw international scrutiny and may increase political tension within Bangladesh.
