The number of charges against former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has surged, with the total now reaching 51. The charges, which include a range of serious crimes, continue to mount as investigations into her role in past events progress.
According to The Daily Star, law enforcement and the judiciary are still determining the death toll from the July-August anti-government protests, during which over 500 people were reportedly killed. The investigations focus on the actions of security forces, who allegedly acted under the orders of Sheikh Hasina and her ministers. As a result, the former prime minister now faces 42 charges related to the killing of protesters, seven charges of crimes against humanity and genocide, and one charge of kidnapping.
In addition to Sheikh Hasina, 86 others are facing similar charges. This group includes Awami League General Secretary Obaidul Quader, former Foreign Minister Hassan Mahmood, former Interior Minister Asaduzzaman Khan, and Justice Ministry chief Anisur Rahman. The list of accused also extends to Sheikh Rehana's sister, her son Sajeeb Wazed Joy, and her daughter Saima Wazed. Like Hasina, they are implicated in the 2018 abduction and murder of a labor leader.
All charges are expected to be referred to the International Criminal Tribunal for trial.
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Photo: Jason DeCrow/AP/TASS
Based on materials from TASS