July 14, 2026
DHAKA – Chief Prosecutor Md Aminul Islam yesterday said diplomatic efforts are on to bring ousted prime minister Sheikh Hasina back home, adding that if she returns, she will be arrested immediately and will have no scope to seek bail under the International Crimes Tribunal’s law.
Speaking to reporters at his office, Aminul said the government has requested India to hand her over.
“If Sheikh Hasina is under the control of the Indian government, she cannot return on her own. She will either have to be handed over under the extradition treaty or be pushed in. Diplomatic efforts are continuing to bring her back.”
Responding to a question about Hasina’s recent political statements, the chief prosecutor described them as “political stunt”, alleging that she was trying to create instability in the country through her party leaders and activists.
On whether the former PM could obtain bail if brought back, Aminul said there is no provision under the ICT Act for granting bail to a person sentenced to death.
“There is no precedent in Bangladesh for a condemned convict being granted bail. Since the tribunal also ordered the confiscation of her assets, she cannot enjoy any immovable property or bank deposits in Bangladesh.”
The chief prosecutor added that Hasina had lost her statutory right to appeal by failing to file an appeal within 30 days of the verdict, as stipulated under section 21 of the ICT Act.
“Whether she will ultimately be permitted to appeal after being brought back is a matter for the Supreme Court to decide. If an appeal is not allowed, the sentence will remain in force.”