Bangladesh is witnessing heightened political tension as Sajeeb Wazed, the son and adviser of exiled Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, warned of possible nationwide unrest ahead of Monday’s highly anticipated tribunal verdict. Hasina, who was ousted from power in 2024 following intense and violent student-led protests, is currently facing charges of crimes against humanity linked to the security crackdown that year. She has strongly rejected the allegations, claiming the case is politically motivated and engineered by the interim administration.
Speaking a day before the verdict, Wazed said that the Awami League – whose political registration was suspended by the interim government – would not allow the national elections scheduled for February to proceed if the ban on the party remains in place. He warned that protests could escalate into violent confrontations unless the international community intervenes. He further claimed that the verdict would be a “foregone conviction” and could include a death sentence.
Hasina has been living in exile in New Delhi since August 2024, where, according to Wazed, the Indian government is providing her full security and treating her with high-level protocol. “What can they do to my mother? She is safe in India,” he said.
However, the interim government, headed by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, rejected claims of political interference. A spokesperson stated that the tribunal proceedings were transparent, documented, and open to observers, calling Wazed’s remarks irresponsible.
Bangladesh remains on edge with multiple crude bomb blasts, shutdowns, and reports of arson in recent days. More than 400 Border Guard personnel have been deployed, checkpoints reinforced, and gatherings restricted as authorities aim to prevent further escalation.
