Sheikh Hasina’s Fall: Bangladesh Confronts a Historic Turning Point

Bangladesh is undergoing one of the most turbulent periods in its modern political history following the conviction and death sentence handed down in absentia to its former Prime Minister, Sheikh Hasina. Once one of the most dominant leaders in South Asia, Hasina fled into exile in 2024 after mass protests engulfed the country. Now, she has been found guilty by Bangladesh’s International Crimes Tribunal on multiple counts of crimes against humanity linked to a violent crackdown on demonstrations.

Hasina’s long tenure, which stretched from 2009 until her removal from office in 2024, was marked by ambitious development gains but also growing accusations of authoritarianism, politicised policing, and state overreach. The student-led protests that erupted over public-sector job quotas escalated into national unrest, and the security response left hundreds dead. The tribunal determined that Hasina either ordered or failed to prevent lethal force being used, including drones and helicopter units. She remains in exile, insisting the charges are politically motivated.

A Trial That Divides Opinion

The tribunal’s decision has polarised opinion both within Bangladesh and internationally. Supporters of the interim government argue that the verdict represents long-overdue accountability after years of entrenched political dominance. Critics, however, argue that the speed of proceedings, the use of a trial in absentia, and the influence of the new authorities undermine the legitimacy of the outcome.

Human-rights organisations have raised concerns about due process, transparency and the broader implications of using the death penalty in such a politically charged context. Meanwhile, Hasina’s supporters abroad claim the trial is an attempt to erase the Awami League — which governed Bangladesh for most of the past decade and a half — from the political landscape.

A Political System in Freefall

The fallout has been swift. The Awami League has been barred from contesting national elections under rules introduced by the interim administration. Bangladesh now faces a general election scheduled for early 2026, but the political environment remains fraught. Many analysts fear that the country is shifting from one form of dominance to another, rather than moving toward a more pluralistic political culture.

Hasina herself continues to address supporters from exile, vowing to challenge the verdict and accusing the current leadership of orchestrating a politically motivated purge. Whether she can influence events from abroad remains unclear, but her shadow looms large over Bangladesh’s future.

Why This Matters

The Hasina trial is more than a legal drama — it signals a profound reordering of political power in Bangladesh. It raises questions about how fragile democracies pursue justice, how they treat former leaders, and how they balance accountability with legitimacy. The outcome of the upcoming election will determine whether Bangladesh emerges from this crisis with stronger democratic institutions or deeper divisions.

Sources:
– The Guardian – reporting on Hasina’s conviction and sentencing
– Reuters – coverage of the tribunal, political fallout, and party restrictions
– Associated Press – background on related tribunal rulings
– India Today – interviews and commentary on Hasina’s exile and political position