'We Oppose the Death Penalty…' What Did the UN Chief Say on Sheikh Hasina’s Verdict?

The United Nations has expressed strong objection to the death sentence awarded to former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. This is the first major international statement, which has raised questions on this decision of Dhaka. Hasina is currently living in exile in India, and the Bangladesh court pronounced this sentence in her absence.

Responding on behalf of UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, spokesperson Stephane Dujarric clearly said on Monday that the organization does not support the death penalty under any circumstances. Speaking to the press, he said, “We are against the death penalty in all circumstances”—a straightforward, no-nonsense statement.

What was said to Geneva?

The office of High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk also expressed its views on this decision. In a statement issued from Geneva, his spokesperson Raveena Shamdasani said that this decision could be an important milestone for those who had to face violence while stopping the demonstrations last year.

But he also added that the UN had not monitored the trial. In such cases—especially when the accused is not present in court and the sentence is death—international standards of fair trial must be fully observed. He indicated that questions still remained as to how fair the process was.

What is ICT and why is its history associated with controversies?

The name of the court that gave this decision is 'International Crimes Tribunal.' The name is such that it seems as if it is a global court, whereas it is completely a domestic court of Bangladesh. It was created several decades ago to try war crimes committed in 1971.

After the fall of Sheikh Hasina, the head of the interim government, Mohammad Yunus, reactivated this old tribunal. It is alleged that in the new political situation it was used against Hasina and her associates. This case was related to the same incidents when there was huge violence while controlling the student movement last year and Hasina had to leave the country and flee to India.

How has the environment changed in Bangladesh?

Tension could be clearly felt in Dhaka after the decision. There is an intense phase of protests, restlessness, and political statements going on in many places. Foreign diplomats are also constantly monitoring the situation. The question is not only about the court's decision, but also about what direction it will take the politics of Bangladesh further.