Death Sentences of World Leaders: Sheikh Hasina and Other Global Figures Who Faced Capital Punishment

Sheikh Hasina was found guilty on three counts in a crimes against humanity case.

Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has received a death sentence from the nation's International Crimes Tribunal for "crimes against humanity" connected to the student-led protests that overthrew her Awami League government last year.

According to United Nations reports, approximately 1,400 people lost their lives during government crackdowns as Hasina attempted to maintain power.

These fatalities formed the central basis of her trial. The verdict was announced on Monday while Hasina remains in exile, making it a judgment in absentia.

Bangladesh has experienced political instability since the conclusion of Hasina's 15-year leadership, with violence affecting electoral campaigns ahead of anticipated February 2026 elections.

Throughout history, various global leaders have faced death sentences for offenses including war crimes, corruption, abuse of power, and human rights violations.

Nicolae Ceausescu (Romania, 1989) was executed by firing squad following a rapid military trial for power abuse and crimes against Romanian citizens. His trial, lasting only hours, ended his 24-year authoritarian regime and represents one of the most notable examples of post-revolution justice.

Saddam Hussein (Iraq, 2006) was hanged after being convicted of crimes against humanity related to the Dujail massacre following his 2003 overthrow.

Zulfikar Ali Bhutto (Pakistan, 1979), Pakistan's former prime minister, was executed in Rawalpindi for conspiracy to commit murder under General Zia-ul-Haq's military government.

Ion Antonescu (Romania, 1946), Romania's wartime leader, faced execution by firing squad for collaborating with Nazi Germany and perpetrating war crimes against Jewish and Roma populations.

Pervez Musharraf, Pakistan's former military ruler who seized power in 1999, was tried for high treason after suspending the constitution and declaring emergency rule in 2007. In December 2019, he received a death sentence in absentia while residing in self-imposed exile in Dubai.

Francisco Macias Nguema (Equatorial Guinea, 1979) was convicted of genocide, mass murder, and corruption, and subsequently executed following a military coup. His brutal regime resulted in hundreds of thousands being killed or forced into exile.

Ferenc Szalasi (Hungary, 1946), Hungary's fascist wartime leader, was hanged for war crimes and treason after World War II ended.

Louis XVI (France, 1793), the French king, was executed by guillotine for treason during the French Revolution.

Charles I of England (UK, 1649) faced public beheading in 1649 following the English Civil War after being found guilty of treason.

Benito Mussolini (Italy, 1945), the Italian dictator, was executed by firing squad without trial in 1945 after being removed from power at World War II's conclusion.

Adnan Menderes (Turkey, 1961), Turkey's former Prime Minister, was hanged in 1961 following a military coup for political crimes committed during his administration.

Hideki Tojo (Japan, 1948), Japan's wartime Prime Minister, was executed by hanging in 1948 after being convicted of World War II war crimes.