Bangladesh Tribunal Issues Arrest Warrant for Sajeeb Wazed Amid Political Turmoil

Arrest Warrant Issued

On Thursday, the International Crimes Tribunal in Bangladesh announced an arrest warrant for Sajeeb Wazed, the son of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, as reported by a local news outlet. This warrant stems from allegations of crimes against humanity linked to protests against Hasina's administration in 2024.

Details of the Case

The tribunal has acknowledged the charges and instructed prison officials to present three additional suspects in the case, along with related matters, in court on December 10. Wazed has been residing in the United States for several years and obtained U.S. citizenship in May.

Political Context

This warrant comes shortly after Sheikh Hasina was sentenced to death by the tribunal for her role in the violent suppression of protests. This ruling marks the first of four cases concerning alleged human rights violations during her government's response to extensive student-led demonstrations in July and August 2024.

Hasina's Resignation and Aftermath

During the protests, Hasina resigned from her position and fled to India on August 5, 2024, after 16 years in power. Following her departure, Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus assumed leadership of Bangladesh's interim government just three days later.

Response to the Verdict

Hasina, who was tried in absentia, condemned the verdict, claiming it originated from a 'rigged tribunal' run by an 'unelected government lacking a democratic mandate.' In a statement from the Awami League, she described the tribunal as biased and politically driven.