Former Bangladesh PM Hasina Sentenced for Ordering Suppression of Student Protests
A special court in Bangladesh has ruled that former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina was responsible for ordering the brutal suppression of student protests several years ago. The verdict found Hasina responsible for directing the repressive measures that resulted in hundreds of deaths.
According to United Nations (UN) estimates, at least 1,400 people were killed, mostly by security forces firing on them during the demonstrations.
Hasina is being tried in absentia, unable to appear in court after fleeing to India following her resignation as Bangladesh’s leader. From her refuge, Hasina has denounced the legal proceedings as unfair and “excessive.”
The court’s decision has reignited debate about the legitimacy of the Bangladeshi government. Criticism has also been raised about the independence of the judiciary, given the significant political implications of the case.
Meanwhile, the Bangladeshi government has stepped up security measures in several areas. Authorities fear a backlash from Hasina’s supporters and other community groups. Several demonstrations have been reported since morning, heightening the national tension.
Hasina was found guilty on charges accusing her of directly ordering security forces to open fire on protesters weeks before she left the country. However, Hasina has consistently denied all charges and called the charges politically motivated.
