Overview
- Hasina was convicted in absentia of crimes against humanity over the violent suppression of student-led protests, with UN findings citing up to about 1,400 people killed.
- Judge Golam Mortuza Mozumder said all elements of crimes against humanity were met, and the verdict was broadcast live as crowds outside celebrated.
- Former Interior Minister Asaduzzaman Khan also received a death sentence in absentia, while ex–police chief Chowdhury Abdullah Al‑Mamun got five years after cooperating with prosecutors.
- From exile in India, Hasina rejected the ruling as politically motivated and questioned the tribunal’s legitimacy, a view echoed by the Awami League.
- Bangladesh formally requested Hasina’s extradition, India acknowledged the verdict without committing to a transfer, the UN criticized the death penalty even as it welcomed accountability, and authorities tightened security before elections expected in February 2026.