Dhaka, Sept. 9 -- Sheikh Hasina retained state power through manipulation of elections. By abusing government authority, she captured the electoral process, which eventually cut off her connection with the people.

This was stated by the late Badruddin Umar - eminent intellectual, writer, researcher, and president of Jatiya Mukti Council - in his last testimony to the investigation officer (IO) of the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) in the case filed against Sheikh Hasina and three others on charges of crimes against humanity.

ICT Prosecutor Gazi MH Tamim told journalists, "Badruddin Umar was a vital witness in Sheikh Hasina's case. Although he could not appear before the tribunal in person, he recorded his testimony with the investi...