Awami League Condemns Dhaka Court Ruling Against Sheikh Hasina

The Awami League has rejected the recent verdict from a Dhaka court that sentenced former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and her family members to prison terms in an Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) case. The party described the ruling as “entirely predictable,” asserting that it is a reflection of political motivations behind the actions of the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus.

On March 25, 2024, the court sentenced Hasina to five years in prison due to alleged irregularities in the Purbachal New Town land allocation project. Her sister, Sheikh Rehana, received a seven-year sentence, while her niece, British MP Tulip Siddiq, was sentenced to two years.

In a statement, the Awami League highlighted significant concerns about the integrity of the trial. The party claimed that “no persuasive evidence of corruption was heard at the ACC, because none exists.” They further asserted that the defendants did not receive adequate legal representation during the proceedings and were judged in absentia, which raises serious questions about judicial fairness.

The Awami League characterized the ruling as a product of a politically motivated campaign, emphasizing that the ACC has been “weaponised” by “desperate, unelected men.” This assertion underscores the party’s position that the verdict serves broader political objectives rather than a commitment to justice.

Legal experts, both local and international, have criticized the process, asserting that it fails to meet standards of judicial fairness. The Awami League’s statement reflects a broader sentiment among its supporters that the court’s decision is more about political maneuvering than actual legal violations.

As the political landscape continues to evolve in Bangladesh, the implications of this ruling could be significant for both the Awami League and the interim government. The party has signaled its intention to challenge the verdict, vowing to fight what it perceives as an unjust outcome.

The situation remains fluid, with potential repercussions for the political dynamics in the country as the Awami League rallies its supporters in response to this latest development.