The International Crimes Tribunal of Bangladesh has issued an arrest warrant for former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina Wajid, who is currently in self-imposed exile, on charges related to the killing and torture of anti-government protestors.
During a hearing led by Justice Ghulam Murtaza Mujaddar, the tribunal granted the prosecution’s request for arrest warrants for 50 individuals, including Hasina. Chief Prosecutor Muhammad Taj-ul-Islam argued that the investigation would be hindered without apprehending these high-profile suspects. Hasina and several Awami League leaders face over 60 cases involving murder, torture, and disappearances.
Read more: Sheikh Hasina’s son denies claims that she blamed the US for the government’s downfall
After reviewing the prosecution’s arguments, the tribunal issued the arrest warrant. According to Reuters, Awami League leaders were unavailable for comment, as many are either in hiding or under arrest. Last month, Hasina’s son, Sajeeb Wajid, said his mother was ready to face the charges, maintaining her innocence.
Hasina fled to India on August 5th, the day her government was overthrown amid student-led protests that left over 700 dead and many more injured. Following her ousting, a military-led interim cabinet, chaired by economist Muhammad Yunus, was established to govern. It includes various political figures but no members of Hasina’s Awami League party.
