Bangladesh will seek the extradition of former prime minister Sheikh Hasina from India, and will put her on trial for crimes against humanity, says Mohammad Yunus, interim leader since her overthrow in August following widespread protests over her authoritarian rule.
Speaking in Dhaka at an event marking 100 days of the interim government, Yunus accused Hasina of corruption, murder and crimes against humanity, adding “We will seek the extradition of the ousted autocrat from India.”
“We have taken initiatives to try those responsible for enforced disappearances, murders and the mass killings during the July to August mass uprisings,” he said.
Dhaka has already issued an arrest warrant for her and she’s been summoned to appear before a court in the capital. But Hasina remains in India and there seems little likelihood of her ever being asked to return by the Indian government.
A special tribunal will begin hearings this week into Hasina’s alleged crimes. Reports say prosecutors have sought help from financial agencies in the US, UK and Singapore to trace what they claim is stolen money.
Hasina’s and her entourage including those in business deemed close to her are accused of embezzling millions of dollars and siphoning it out of the country. Thirteen people comprising former ministers, judges and businessmen have already appeared before the tribunal with six more due to appear on Wednesday.
Earlier this month, Bangladesh had threatened to get an Interpol “Red Corner Notice” issued against Hasina. But even if one is issued, India is under no compulsion to hand her over and can apply its own laws to decide whether to arrest her or not.
Yunus also spoke about the political road ahead, saying he would remain the in his current post only to ensure reforms are carried out. Thereafter elections will be held and he would hand over power to which ever party won. But he gave no timelines.
