Bangladesh court issues arrest warrant for exiled ex-PM Sheikh Hasina

Over 60 complaints against Hasina, Awami League leaders allege enforced disappearances, murder, and mass killings.

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DHAKA:

Bangladesh’s International Crimes Tribunal on Thursday issued an arrest warrant for former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, citing her alleged involvement in mass killings during violent protests that erupted earlier this year.

The protests, which began as a student-led movement against public sector job quotas, escalated into some of the deadliest unrest since the country’s independence in 1971, resulting in over 700 deaths and numerous injuries.

The violence ultimately forced Hasina to flee to India on August 5th and an interim government led by Nobel Peace Prize laureate Muhammad Yunus took charge.

The tribunal’s proceedings, presided over by Justice Golam Mortuza Majumdar, saw prosecutors request arrest warrants for 50 individuals, including Hasina.

“I appealed to the court that if the accused, who are extremely influential, are not arrested, it will be impossible to conduct the investigation," chief prosecutor Mohammad Tajul Islam said.

To date, more than 60 complaints have been filed against Hasina and other leaders of her Awami League party, alleging enforced disappearances, murder, and mass killings.

Party leaders from the Awami League were not immediately available for comment, as many senior members have either been arrested or have gone into hiding.

However, Hasina’s son, Sajeeb Wazed, told Reuters last month that his mother was ready to face trial in Bangladesh, adding: “My mother has done nothing wrong.

Court orders investigation accused PM

Previously, a citizen's case against former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina prompted a significant legal response in Bangladesh.

The Dhaka court's decision marked a pivotal moment in the political landscape of the country, reflecting rising tensions and demands for accountability.

As protests erupted across the nation, the public's discontent was palpable, leading to calls for justice for those affected by the violence.

The protests initially began as a peaceful movement advocating for changes in government job quotas.

However, the demonstrations soon escalated into widespread unrest, resulting in numerous fatalities and injuries.

The government struggled to contain the situation, which was exacerbated by public outrage and demands for leadership accountability.

In this charged atmosphere, the case against Hasina and other officials emerged as a focal point for those seeking justice.

Amidst this turmoil, Sheikh Hasina's absence from the country raised questions about her political future. As she remained in India, speculation about her return and potential legal challenges loomed large.

The call for investigations not only targeted Hasina but also included high-ranking officials, indicating a broader scrutiny of government actions during the unrest.

As the interim government, led by Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus, took shape, the implications of the court's order became increasingly significant.

Observers noted that this investigation could reshape the political landscape in Bangladesh, with many citizens hoping for accountability and a fair judicial process.

The situation remained fluid, with citizens closely watching the developments as they unfolded.