Dhaka, Nov 18 (V7N) – The International Crisis Group (ICG) has stated that the chances of former prime minister Sheikh Hasina returning to Bangladesh’s political landscape have become “extremely slim,” following the announcement of her death sentence.

The International Crisis Group has warned of significant political implications after the sentencing of former prime minister Sheikh Hasina, who was removed from power following the July–August uprising. In a statement released on Monday, ICG’s Senior Consultant for Bangladesh, Thomas Kean, said the verdict carries “far‑reaching political consequences.”

Kean noted that the ruling is expected to receive broad public approval in Bangladesh, as many citizens hold Sheikh Hasina responsible for the brutal crackdown during the 2024 uprising. According to Kean, United Nations investigations have already confirmed that nearly 1,400 people were killed during the state‑led repression, carried out with full knowledge, coordination, and direction from political leadership. Both Sheikh Hasina and her then–home minister Asaduzzaman Khan were specifically implicated.

The tribunal presented various forms of evidence, including recorded conversations of Sheikh Hasina, testimony from the former police chief, and multiple other documents, which the court said demonstrated direct involvement in the violence.

However, the ICG expressed concerns over certain aspects of the legal process. Kean pointed out that trials conducted in the absence of the accused often raise doubts, and the speed at which the hearings were completed may lead to questions regarding fairness. These criticisms, he said, reflect long-standing structural problems within Bangladesh’s criminal justice system—issues the interim government has yet to address effectively.

Kean described the political significance of the verdict as “profound,” adding that Sheikh Hasina’s prospects of returning to Bangladeshi politics have now diminished sharply. He suggested that as long as she refuses to relinquish her control over the Awami League, the party’s chances of regaining political relevance will remain limited.

Recent incidents—including nationwide shutdowns, explosions of crude bombs, and escalating street tensions—have further unsettled the public. Analysts expect such disturbances to intensify ahead of the upcoming 13th national parliamentary election.

The ICG advised the Awami League to refrain from violent activities and urged the interim government to avoid excessive force against the party’s supporters, warning that both sides must act responsibly to prevent further instability.

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