Sheikh Hasina Denies Crimes Against Humanity Charges as Trial Proceeds in Her Absence

Bangladesh’s fugitive former prime minister Sheikh Hasina has denied all charges of crimes against humanity, her state-appointed defence counsel stated on Tuesday, as her trial in absentia continues. Hasina fled to India after last August’s student-led uprising that toppled her government, which is accused of violently cracking down on protesters, resulting in up to 1,400 deaths according to UN estimates. The trial, which began on June 1, includes charges of abetment, incitement, complicity, facilitation, conspiracy, and failure to prevent mass murder. Defence lawyer Amir Hossain said Hasina “categorically denies all allegations” and will seek her acquittal, while prosecutors argue she used lethal force to maintain power. The proceedings, described as a “show trial” by her banned Awami League party, are being closely watched by international observers. Hasina is being tried alongside former interior minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal, also on the run, and ex-police chief Chowdhury Abdullah Al Mamun, who is in custody.