Former Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina Handed 6-Month Jail Sentence in Contempt Case

2nd July 2025 at 3:40 PM

1 minute read

Bangladesh prosecutors on Sunday charged former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina with crimes against humanity for her alleged role in the violent crackdowns during the 2024 student-led uprising, which culminated in the resignation and flight of the Awami League leader.

Former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has received a six-month jail sentence for contempt of court, marking the first time she has been convicted since being forced from power 11 months ago. The verdict was delivered on Wednesday, July 2, by the country’s International Crimes Tribunal (ICT), as reported by The Dhaka Tribune.

A three-judge panel of the ICT-1, led by Chairman Justice Md Golam Mortuza Mozumder, handed down the ruling in absentia, as Hasina currently resides outside of Bangladesh. In the same decision, another individual, Shakil Akand Bulbul, was sentenced to two months. The tribunal stipulated that the prison terms for both Hasina and Bulbul will begin upon their arrest or surrender to authorities.

The Allegations Behind the Verdict

The contempt of court charge originated from a complaint filed by the prosecution over an alleged phone call. During the conversation, Hasina was purportedly heard stating she possessed a “license to kill” 227 people, a number corresponding to the 227 legal cases filed against her. Prosecutors argued this remark showed disdain for the judicial process and undermined the court’s authority.

Court Proceedings Held in Absentia

The trial proceeded without Hasina or Bulbul present, as they repeatedly failed to appear in court. Key events in the lead-up to the verdict include:

May 15: The court first directed Hasina and Bulbul to provide their explanations regarding the allegation.
May 25: After they failed to comply, a formal summons was issued for their appearance.
June 3: They again did not attend the hearing, even after the summons was published in two national newspapers.

Due to their continued absence, the tribunal appointed legal representatives to ensure a fair trial. AY Moshiuzzaman served as an amicus curiae, or friend of the court, to offer impartial expertise. Advocate Amir Hossain was appointed as state defense counsel for the accused.

This report includes information from PTI.