Prosecutors plan to use a leaked phone call to establish Sheikh Hasina's direct involvement in authorizing lethal violence against protesters, which resulted in significant casualties during student-led demonstrations.
**Leaked Audio Links Ex-PM Hasina to Lethal Protest Crackdown in Bangladesh**
**Leaked Audio Links Ex-PM Hasina to Lethal Protest Crackdown in Bangladesh**
Audio evidence suggests Sheikh Hasina authorized the deadly response to protests, leading to potential crimes against humanity charges.
A chilling revelation has emerged in Bangladesh as prosecutors prepare to present a leaked audio recording allegedly featuring former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, in which she purportedly authorized the use of "lethal weapons" against protesting students. Verified by BBC Eye Investigations, the recording reportedly captures Hasina's directive to security forces to "shoot" wherever they find demonstrators amidst last summer's massive protests, which claimed at least 1,400 lives according to UN investigators.
The tape, leaked online in March, has become pivotal evidence as Hasina faces trial for crimes against humanity in absentia at a special tribunal. Although Hasina fled to India and denies the charges, the Awami League spokesperson has claimed that the tape does not reflect any unlawful intent.
The protests, ignited by grievances against civil service job quotas linked to political elites, escalated into a widespread uprising that culminated in Hasina's departure from power after a 15-year rule. The protests intensified on August 5, when violent scenes unfolded as police clashed with demonstrators, leading to a record death toll—putting this unrest on par with the historical violence experienced during the 1971 war of independence.
On July 18, during her phone call made from the Ganabhaban, Hasina discussed security measures amid rising public outrage due to police violence captured on social media. Following the recording, authorities reportedly deployed military-grade firearms to confront protesters, marking a drastic escalation in their response.
The investigation into the events of that summer has uncovered troubling details, including the killings in Jatrabari, where police indiscriminately fired into crowds, exemplifying the intense violence faced by civilians. Eyewitness accounts, videos, and police documents corroborate these allegations, establishing a clear narrative of excessive force.
Human rights experts stress the importance of the audio recording in placing responsibility on Hasina, amidst her claims of innocence. As investigations continue, the Awami League maintains that actions taken by officials were proportionate, rejecting suggestions of culpability for the violent crackdown on dissent.
As Bangladesh now faces a significant political transition under interim leadership, the fate of the Awami League and its future participation in upcoming national elections hangs in the balance, adding another layer of complexity to this ongoing saga of political and civil rights in the region.
