Bangladesh on Edge: Explosions, Shutdown and Tension Ahead of Hasina Verdict

Dhaka: Bangladesh was rocked by several blasts and increasing instability late Sunday night. The interim government had to deploy troops to control the situation. Tension has increased because the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) is scheduled to deliver its verdict today in the case in which ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is accused of crimes against humanity over the crackdown on the student movement last year. If found guilty, he can also be sentenced to death. Hasina was in exile in India at the time of the verdict, and her entire trial was held in absentia.

Haseena's emotional message—"No need to be afraid, keep fighting"

Before the decision, a long audio message from Hasina was posted on the Facebook page of Awami League. She appealed to the workers to take to the streets, despite the government having banned the demonstration. She said, "Don't spread rumors about me. I am alive and with the people. Don't give up the struggle."

Awami League closed on Monday, serious allegations against interim government

The party announced a nationwide bandh just before the verdict. Hasina, in her message, said there was a “conspiracy” being hatched to oust the Awami League from politics and the interim government was targeting its supporters. She claimed that party workers were not allowed to enter schools, were killed on the road, and were not being given any kind of freedom. She also said that “the country is being made a fundamentalist state” and those committing murders and arson are being given protection.

Hasina called the case 'illegal'

The 78-year-old former prime minister accused ICT of flouting the law. She says the 1973 war crimes law does not allow such a hearing. She called the tribunal a “kangaroo court” and accused interim government head Professor Mohammed Yunus of “unlawfully usurping power”. Hasina says, "I did not give any order for violence in the July Movement. All the action was taken by Yunus' people."

Blasts and arson in Dhaka—'shoot at sight' order implemented

Incidents of explosions and burning of vehicles have been happening continuously for three days in the capital Dhaka and many cities. On Sunday night, two crude bombs exploded outside the house of interim government advisor Syeda Rizwana Hasan. An explosion took place in Karwan Bazaar.

Several buses and garbage carts were set on fire in the police station premises. The Dhaka Police Commissioner has directed that “if anyone sets fire to a bus or throws a bomb with the intention of killing, he should be shot immediately.”

Gramin Bank offices also attacked, capital under security cover

Since November 10, a series of blasts have been carried out at the headquarters and several branches of Grameen Bank. 'Shoot-at-site' orders are in force in Dhaka, and the entire city has been kept under a security cordon.

Hasina's departure and shadow on upcoming elections

Hasina was removed from power in August 2024 amid violence and political confrontation. The interim government has promised to hold elections in February, but the Awami League has been campaigning on social media, calling the elections “illegitimate.” The party claims that thousands of workers have been arrested.

Scale of violence—UN report worrying

Last year's violence may have caused as many as 1,400 deaths, according to a UN report. The interim government's health adviser claims more than 800 people died and 14,000 were injured. Hasina does not agree with these figures and has demanded an independent investigation.