Hasina defiant ahead of ICT verdict: 'I’ll serve my people'
Hasina defiant ahead of ICT verdict: 'I’ll serve my people'
Ahead of a pivotal ICT verdict, Hasina declares she won’t bow to the court and calls the charges politically driven.
Ahead of one of Bangladesh's most consequential verdicts, former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has issued a defiant message, declaring that she doesn't care about the court's ruling that could decide her fate. The International Crimes Tribunal in Dhaka will deliver its judgment on crimes against humanity linked to last year's violent protests that toppled her 15-year rule and forced her into exile. Prosecutors have sought the death penalty for Hasina and her former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal, both tried in absentia. 'Let them announce whatever verdict they want. It doesn’t matter to me. Allah gave me this life, and only he can end it. I will still serve my people,' Hasina said in an audio message released to her supporters on Sunday. 'This is not a power play. Awami League has come from the grassroots, not from the pocket of some usurper,' she added, insisting the allegations against her are false and politically driven. Hasina also alleged that Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus's administration is using the tribunal to 'finish off' her party, which has been banned as a terrorist organization. 'They have granted amnesty to killers,' she claimed, arguing that justice has been closed off for the victims' families. The tribunal's verdict is expected today. Under the law, Hasina can appeal only if she is arrested or surrenders within 30 days. Interim government adviser Jahangir Alam Chowdhury said the verdict 'will be executed' regardless of the outcome. Hasina's party, now leaderless, faces continued crackdowns after months of mass demonstrations across Dhaka, Chittagong, and Khulna that left hundreds dead, with the toll cited by UN and local health officials varying in estimates. The year-long confrontation has intensified calls for accountability and highlighted Bangladesh's fragile political climate.
Cover image source: 'Won't forget, will give it back': Sheikh Hasina's tough message ahead of crimes against humanity verdict 🔗
