In a dramatic turn in Bangladesh’s political landscape, the trial of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina commenced today at the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) in Dhaka, marking a significant chapter in the country’s modern history. The proceedings are based on a report submitted by Chief Prosecutor Tajul Islam on 1 June.
Hasina, who was ousted from power following a massive public uprising on 5 August 2024, is facing over 250 murder cases lodged in various courts across the nation. She is also accused of crimes against humanity — the focus of today’s tribunal hearing.
Joining her in the list of accused are former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal and a former Inspector General of Police. Both Hasina and Asaduzzaman are in hiding — Hasina reportedly in an undisclosed location in India — and the trial is being conducted in absentia.
Reacting to the trial, Hasina dismissed the proceedings as a “farce”. In a statement from her undisclosed location, she said neither she nor the Awami League (AL) recognises the legitimacy of the tribunal and confirmed that they will boycott the hearings. Echoing her position, Asaduzzaman Khan told News Arena India (NAI): “This trial is politically motivated. The government did not instruct law enforcement to open fire. They acted in self-defence in accordance with the Criminal Code.”
Awami League General Secretary Obaidul Quader, who is also in hiding, reaffirmed the party’s strategy: “We will boycott the hearings and remain active on the streets.”
Within hours, AL supporters had taken to the streets of Dhaka. On Sunday night, thousands marched, blocking key roads and clashing with police and army units at several locations. Parallel demonstrations were held by affiliated organisations including the Bangladesh Chhatra League, Jubo League, Krishak League and Sramik League. One of the main processions began at Ganabhaban and moved past the Muktijuddho Tower to the Shyamoli Shishu Mela premises.
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Despite attempts by opposition groups such as the BNP, Jamaat-e-Islami and the Nationalist Citizens’ Party (NCP) to suppress the demonstrations, Awami League cadres remained defiant.
The party has now announced a month-long protest demanding the resignation of what it describes as the “fascist and militant regime of Yunus”, accusing Nobel laureate Dr Muhammad Yunus of masterminding the events leading to Hasina’s ouster.
Organising Secretary Sujit Roy Nandi alleged that the August 5 uprising was “a well-planned conspiracy” orchestrated by Yunus and “anti-national militant allies”. He claimed the country had since entered “a cruel, horrific era of darkness”.
Party Presidium Member Jahangir Kabir Nanak, in a fiery speech, warned of democracy's collapse, rampant human rights violations, media suppression, lawlessness, and widespread violence including attacks on women and minorities. “This puppet government is handing over Bangladesh’s sovereignty to foreign interests,” he declared.
“The entire nation must rise up like 1971,” Jahangir urged, calling for a mass mobilisation to “restore the constitution written in blood”.
The Awami League’s protest calendar includes marches at all police stations in Dhaka on Monday, a tribute and discussion on the party’s founding anniversary on 23 June, nationwide demonstrations on 24 June, protest rallies at all organisational districts on 1 July, and mass demonstrations at union-to-upazila levels on 16 July.
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