Muktadesh Desk: The International Crimes Tribunal’s verdict against ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal for crimes against humanity is a significant moment for victims of serious human rights violations during last year’s uprising. Ravina Shamdasani, spokesperson for the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), made the remarks.
Ravina made the remarks in a statement after the International Crimes Tribunal announced the death penalty against Sheikh Hasina and Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal on Monday. However, she expressed dissatisfaction with the death penalty.
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In a statement published on the OHCHR website, Ravina Shamdasani said, “Since the publication of our fact-finding report in February 2025, we have been calling for those responsible, including those who gave instructions and were in leadership positions, to be held accountable in accordance with international standards.” We also call for effective remedies and compensation for the victims.’
Raveena said, ‘Although we were not aware of this trial, we have been saying that all accountability processes, especially those involving international crimes, should meet international standards of due process and justice. It is very important that the trial was held in absentia and that the death penalty was commuted.’
Raveena expressed her displeasure over the death penalty, saying, ‘We regret the death penalty verdict. We oppose it in all circumstances.’
UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Falcar Turk expressed hope that Bangladesh would move towards national unity and healing through an integrated process of truth-telling, reparations and justice. This process should include meaningful and transformative security sector reforms. These reforms should be in line with international standards, so that human rights violations and abuses never happen again. OHCHR stands ready to support the Government and people of Bangladesh in these efforts.
The High Commissioner calls for calm and restraint in response to this incident.
