Verdict follows a leaked audio recording in which Hasina is allegedly heard making remarks deemed threatening and disrespectful to judiciary
DHAKA: (UrduPoint/Pakistan Point News-July 2nd, 2025) Bangladesh’s International Crimes Tribunal has sentenced former Prime Minister and Awami League leader Sheikh Hasina Wajid to six months in prison after finding her guilty of contempt of court.
The verdict follows a leaked audio recording in which Hasina is allegedly heard making remarks deemed threatening and disrespectful to the judiciary.
In the audio clip, Sheikh Hasina reportedly says, “There are 227 cases against me, now I have a license to kill 227 people.” The court viewed the statement as a direct affront to the dignity and authority of the judiciary, leading to the decision to impose the maximum sentence for contempt.
The tribunal also handed a two-month prison sentence to Shakil Akand, a senior leader of the Awami League’s student wing, Chhatra League, on similar contempt charges.
Sheikh Hasina has been living in exile in India since August last year, following mass student-led protests that rocked the nation. She fled the country amid mounting pressure and legal challenges, and she has since been declared a fugitive by Bangladeshi courts.
Hasina is currently facing multiple serious charges including allegations of crimes against humanity — cases that are still under trial in absentia.
The latest ruling is expected to further deepen the political divide in Bangladesh, with critics accusing the former premier of undermining the rule of law and democratic norms.
The political observers say the decision signals the judiciary’s intent to assert its independence and hold even the most powerful figures accountable for inflammatory or unlawful statements.
As of now, there has been no official response from Sheikh Hasina or the Awami League regarding the court’s decision.