ICG sees major political implications of verdict against Hasina

The International Crisis Group (ICG) believes that the death sentence handed down to former prime minister Sheikh Hasina for crimes against humanity will have significant political ramifications in Bangladesh. The Belgium-based organisation made the remark in an immediate reaction after the International Crimes Tribunal sentenced Hasina to death on Monday for atrocities committed during the July Uprising.

In a statement, Thomas Kean, senior consultant for Bangladesh at the ICG, said, “Sheikh Hasina’s conviction for crimes against humanity will be widely welcomed in Bangladesh. There is very little doubt about her responsibility for the atrocities committed against protesters during the July–August 2024 unrest.” Citing findings from a UN fact-finding report, he added that nearly 1,400 deaths were documented in the violence during that period.

However, the ICG also expressed concerns about aspects of the trial. It said that trial in absentia, rapid proceedings, and inadequate opportunities for defence raised questions about due process. The organisation noted that these issues reflect longstanding weaknesses in Bangladesh’s justice system, which the interim government has not been able to adequately address since assuming office in August 2024.

The statement added that the verdict would have far-reaching consequences for Hasina’s political future. “The verdict makes her return to Bangladeshi politics increasingly unlikely. As long as she remains unwilling to relinquish control over the Awami League, the party’s own political recovery will also remain difficult.”

The ICG also noted that the recent bomb attacks and the Awami League’s “lockdown” programme have heightened political tensions ahead of the national election scheduled for February 2026. The organisation said the Awami League should refrain from resorting to violent programmes, while the interim government should avoid excessive repression of the party’s supporters.