Bangladesh: Impending verdict against deposed PM Hasina

Heightened tensions as security forces increase vigilance and deployment

IH News Desk

GLOBAL, November 16, 2025: Bangladesh is experiencing heightened tensions as security forces increase vigilance and deployment in expectation of violent protests coinciding with a critical court verdict for former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina slated for Monday. The International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) is scheduled to announce its judgment concerning accusations of crimes against humanity related to the 2024 student-led protests, a charge Hasina has consistently denied. 

The ruling Awami League party has announced a two-day shutdown, beginning Sunday, significantly disrupting daily life and business. Alongside Hasina, former home minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal and former police chief (IGP) Chowdhury Abdullah Al-Mamun have also been charged. 

Al-Mamun, however, turned into a prosecution witness, leaving the deposed prime minister and former home minister of the country vulnerable in the case.

Prosecutors indicated that parts of the verdict would be broadcast live on Bangladesh Television (BTV) if permitted by the tribunal, with other media allowed to relay the feed. After being ordered in June to surrender, Hasina and Kamal were declared fugitives amid claims they fled to India. 

In response to the impending verdict, the Awami League has called for a complete shutdown, while recent reports indicate an uptick in violence, including bomb attacks and vehicle arson across Dhaka and other regions. Security forces have arrested scores of league workers and supporters on suspicion of involvement or as a precautionary measure.

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