Bangladesh's longest-serving prime minister, Sheikh Hasina Wazed, began her political career as a pro-democracy icon but fled mass protests in August 2024 after 15 years in power.
Hasina has since lived in self-imposed exile in India, following her ousting after a student-led uprising sparked nationwide unrest.
On November 17, a tribunal in Dhaka sentenced Hasina to death after convicting her of crimes against humanity related to a crackdown on protesters. Up to 1,400 people were reportedly killed during protests urging her resignation, largely due to violence from security forces.
Once heralded for overseeing Bangladesh's economic growth, Hasina's tenure has been marred by accusations of autocracy and political oppression, with critics alleging widespread abuses, disappearances, and a violent crackdown on dissent.
Hasina returned to power in 2009 and was credited with significant economic advancements but also faced persistent allegations of human rights violations, including extrajudicial killings and enforced disappearances.
Her journey illustrates the complexities of political power, showcasing how a leader can transition from a pro-democracy figure to one faced with grave accusations of authoritarianism and abuse.
