Bangladesh Sentences 7 Hasina-Era Leaders to death

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Dhaka, Bangladesh: A Bangladesh tribunal has sentenced seven senior leaders of the former ruling party to death in absentia for crimes against humanity committed during the 2024 uprising.

The convicted figures from Sheikh Hasina’s Awami League include former general secretary Obaidul Quader, former minister Mohammad Ali Arafat, and five other senior members.

Headed by Justice Nazrul Islam Chowdhury, the tribunal found them guilty of murder and instigating fatal violence. The court also ordered that half the assets of five defendants be distributed as compensation to victims' families.

The violent crackdown between July and August 2024 left roughly 1,400 people dead as Hasina’s administration attempted to suppress student-led protests. Her 15-year rule collapsed when she fled to India.

Defence lawyers argued the men lacked direct participation, noting they were convicted due to the actions of their supporters.

Tuesday’s verdicts bring total convictions from the protest trials to 68, with 22 individuals sentenced to death, though only four remain in custody.

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s government has requested the extradition of Hasina, who faces her own prior death sentence.