Highlights
- Sheikh Hasina’s son Sajeeb Wazed warns of violence if Awami League remains banned.
- Court expected to deliver televised verdict convicting Hasina in absentia.
- Wazed says Hasina is safe in New Delhi despite likely death sentence.
- Government denies political motive behind the trial.
- Dhaka sees increased violence and heavy security deployment before the verdict.
One day before the court verdict against fugitive former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, her son and adviser, Sajeeb Wazed, told Reuters that Bangladesh may face serious unrest if the ban on the Awami League (AL) is not withdrawn. He warned that party supporters could block the February national election, and protests could turn violent.
Sajeeb Wazed Claims Hasina Will Likely Be Sentenced
The verdict, expected to be televised, is related to charges of crimes against humanity during the 2024 student-led protests. A UN report previously estimated that up to 1,400 people were killed, mostly by security forces.
Hasina, now 78, has been living in exile in New Delhi since August 2024. According to Wazed, India is giving her complete protection.
Wazed said:
“We know exactly what the verdict is going to be. They’re televising it. They’re going to convict her, and they’ll probably sentence her to death.”
He added:
“My mother is safe in India. India is giving her full security.”
Government Rejects Political Motivation
The interim government led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus denied accusations that the trial is political. A spokesperson said the court process was transparent, allowing observers and publishing documents regularly.
Hasina earlier told Reuters that the verdict is a “foregone conclusion” and the entire trial is “a politically motivated charade.”
Read More: Trial Was Transparent. But Acquittal of Hasina Would Make Me Happiest: State-Appointed Lawyer
Awami League Ban and Election Concerns
The Awami League’s registration was suspended in May, with the government citing national security concerns and ongoing war crimes investigations.
Sajeeb Wazed warned that elections cannot take place without his mother’s party:
“We will not allow elections without the Awami League to go ahead… Our protests are going to get stronger and stronger.”
He also warned of possible violence:
“Eventually there’s probably going to be violence in Bangladesh before these elections … there’s going to be confrontations.”
The government responded strongly, saying there is no plan to lift the ban and calling Wazed’s comments “deeply irresponsible.”
Rising Violence in Dhaka Ahead of Verdict
Dhaka has already seen increased political attacks. On Sunday, several crude bombs exploded, and earlier, on November 12, 32 blasts were recorded. Many buses have also been set on fire.
Police say they have arrested Awami League activists suspected of sabotage.
To control the situation, authorities have:
- Deployed over 400 Border Guards
- Increased checkpoints
- Restricted public gatherings
- Heightened security near courts and key areas
The government says its top priority is safety and preventing further violence.
Awami League Supporters Increasing Pressure
Sajeeb Wazed said he and his mother remain in contact with party activists inside Bangladesh. He said protests across the country will continue to grow.
Hasina, once praised for economic progress but criticized for suppressing opposition, won a fourth consecutive term in 2024 in an election boycotted by major rivals.
Wazed said she is determined to fight back:
“She’s upset, angry, outraged. And we are all determined to fight back by whatever means necessary.”
Source: Reuters
