Crimes Against Humanity: Verdict for Bangladeshi Ex PM Hasina Today

Darwin, 17 November –

The fate of ousted Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina now rests with the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT), which is set to deliver its first verdict involving allegations of crimes against humanity committed during the July 2024 mass uprising.

Hasina is being tried in absentia, alongside two co-accused: former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal and former Inspector General of Police Chowdhury Abdullah Al-Mamun. Al-Mamun has turned state witness in the case.

The tribunal’s upcoming verdict—scheduled for 11:00 AM on Monday and to be broadcast live on state television BTV—is drawing intense national and international attention. This is the first judgment relating to alleged crimes against humanity connected to the July uprising, and the first time a former Bangladeshi head of government has faced such charges.

Background of the Tribunal

Originally established in 2010 under the Awami League government to try 1971 war crimes, the ICT was reconstituted following the fall of the Awami League administration on 5 August 2024. Several individuals were executed in earlier years following ICT verdicts for 1971-related crimes.

The new tribunal initiated proceedings on 17 October 2024, issuing an arrest warrant for Sheikh Hasina the same day. Prosecutors submitted formal charges on 1 June 2025, and the tribunal framed five charges against the three accused on 10 July 2025.

Volume of Evidence

The prosecution’s documentary submission totals 8,747 pages, including:

2,018 pages of references

4,005 pages of seized documents and materials

2,724 pages listing victims

A total of 81 witnesses were listed, with 54 testifying for the prosecution.

Former IGP Al-Mamun, the only accused in custody, admitted involvement in certain acts and requested to testify as a state witness on 10 July.

Allegations Presented in Court

The case includes five major charges, all framed as allegations by the prosecution:

Incitement and mass killings (14 July)
Prosecutors allege that following a speech by Sheikh Hasina at Ganabhaban, security forces and armed ruling-party activists opened fire on protesters, resulting in approximately 1,500 deaths and 25,000 injuries.

Use of aerial and heavy weaponry
The prosecution claims audio recordings show directives to deploy helicopters, drones, and lethal weapons.

Killing of Abu Sayeed in Rangpur
Alleged shooting of a Begum Rokeya University student.

Killing of six unarmed civilians in Chankharpul

Other coordinated attacks during the uprising

Sheikh Hasina left Bangladesh on 5 August 2024 and is believed to be in India, as is former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal. Their trial has proceeded in absentia, with state-appointed counsel representing them. The prosecution has sought the maximum punishment, including the death penalty.

Defense and State Witness Statements

State-appointed defense lawyer Md Amir Hossain has argued for acquittal of both Sheikh Hasina and Asaduzzaman Khan.

Al-Mamun’s lawyer has stated that his client was present at the core committee meeting at Ganabhaban during the uprising and admitted to “inaction and involvement,” leaving his sentencing to the tribunal’s discretion.

Security Measures Ahead of Verdict

Authorities have imposed multi-layered security around the Supreme Court and the tribunal area. Security forces—including the Army, RAB, Police, Border Guard Bangladesh, and intelligence agencies—set up checkpoints overnight.

Border Guard Bangladesh has been deployed in Dhaka, Faridpur, Madaripur, and Gopalganj. Roadblocks, searches, and restrictions are in place around central Dhaka, including near the University of Dhaka.

Several political groups, including Jamaat-e-Islami and NCP, have announced plans to take to the streets, prompting further security deployments.

Procedural Timeline

17 Oct 2024: Reconstituted tribunal begins proceedings; arrest warrant issued for Hasina

16 Mar 2025: Prosecution seeks to add Al-Mamun as accused

12 May 2025: Investigation report submitted

1 Jun 2025: Formal charges filed

10 Jul 2025: Charges framed and Al-Mamun seeks state witness status

12–16 Oct 2025: Closing arguments presented

13 Nov 2025: Date set for verdict announcement

17 Nov 2025: Verdict day

Chief Prosecutor Mohammad Tajul Islam has expressed confidence that the verdict will “set a precedent.” The defense maintains that the accused should be acquitted.