Bangladesh’s ex-Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has been sentenced to death for crimes against humanity committed during last year’s student protests, which killed around 1,400 people.
Tried in absentia after fleeing to India, Hasina was found guilty of incitement, ordering killings, and failing to prevent atrocities. She denies all charges, calling the trial politically motivated.
The interim government, led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, called the verdict “historic” and urged calm. United Nations officials welcomed recognition for victims but oppose the death penalty.
Hasina ruled Bangladesh for 15 years, but her party, the Awami League, was banned—and a fresh parliamentary election is scheduled for February 2026. Analysts warn the verdict may deepen political divisions.
