Bangladesh’s International Crimes Tribunal is expected to announce its verdict on former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s war-crimes case on November 13.
Prosecutors have sought the death penalty, accusing Hasina of ordering the use of lethal force during the July and August 2024 protests that left about 1,400 people dead. Hasina, 78, has dismissed the charges as “bogus” and “politically motivated.” She remains in exile in New Delhi and did not appear before the court or appoint legal counsel.
The tribunal has denied her claims that she was not given sufficient time to prepare her defense.
The United Nations has described the 2024 violence as Bangladesh’s worst bloodshed since independence. Hasina, who ruled for more than a decade, has said she expects a guilty verdict but will not be intimidated, calling the proceedings “kangaroo courts” with predetermined outcomes.