Bangladesh's chief prosecutor has called for the death penalty for former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, citing her role in the violent protests of July and August 2024 that led to her ousting. During these protests, hundreds, including students and political activists, were killed. Chief Prosecutor Tajul Islam made this request during his closing arguments at the International Crimes Tribunal in Dhaka, describing Hasina as the "mastermind and principal architect" behind the alleged crimes against humanity.

Islam stated that if each of the reported 1,400 deaths were to be punished separately, Hasina should face 1,400 death sentences. He also sought the death penalty for former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan, while leaving the decision on former police chief Chowdhury Abdullah Al-Mamun's sentence to the tribunal. Al-Mamun, who is in custody, has turned state witness against Hasina and previously pleaded guilty.

Hasina has been in exile in India since fleeing the country on August 5, 2024. She has not appointed any legal representation and has dismissed the trial as a "kangaroo court." The next court proceedings are scheduled for Monday, with a state-appointed counsel requesting additional time to present arguments.

Following Hasina's departure, Nobel Peace Prize laureate Muhammad Yunus assumed leadership of an interim government and has vowed to hold her accountable, banning the activities of her Awami League party. The United Nations reported that up to 1,400 people may have died during the protests, while the interim government's health adviser stated that over 800 were killed and around 14,000 injured. Hasina's party has questioned these figures and called for independent investigations.

The political climate in Bangladesh remains tense, with recent indictments of 25 military officials for enforced disappearances during Hasina's tenure. Many of these officials are believed to have fled the country. Yunus has indicated that elections are planned for February, but Hasina's party is unlikely to participate due to its ongoing ban.