Ousted former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina declared that her return to Bangladesh is contingent upon the restoration of participatory democracy, the repeal of the ban on the Awami League, and the holding of free and fair elections. In an exclusive email interview with PTI from an undisclosed location in India, Hasina emphasized that the current Yunus government has endangered Bangladesh’s crucial ties with India and has unwittingly empowered extremist forces.
Grateful for the refuge provided by the Indian government, she expressed her appreciation: “I am immensely grateful to India’s government and its people for their kind hospitality.” Known for being Bangladesh’s longest-serving leader, Hasina left her home country on August 5, 2024, following intense anti-government protests and violence.
Hasina underscored that the restoration of democracy is paramount for her return, stating, “The most important condition for my return to Bangladesh is the same condition that the Bangladeshi people require: a return to participatory democracy.” She insisted that the interim government must allow for free elections where her party, the Awami League, can participate fully.
While acknowledging her government’s missteps during the protests, Hasina asserted that the unrest was incited by seasoned political players disguised as student leaders. She rejected allegations that she had suggested a boycott of the forthcoming elections scheduled for February 2025. In her view, any election conducted without the participation of the Awami League would lack legitimacy. “Tens of millions of people support us; it would be a huge missed opportunity for a country that badly needs a government with genuine consent of the people,” Hasina noted.
Hasina fiercely criticized the Yunus administration, claiming that it exhibits hostility towards India, which undermines a vital strategic partnership. She described Yunus as “unelected, chaotic, and dependent on extremist forces,” warning that his approach could adversely affect bilateral relations. Furthermore, she reassured the Indian people by stating, “The interim government doesn’t represent what our people think. India is and will remain our nation’s most important friend.”
In a remarkable turn, Hasina stated her willingness to stand trial under international supervision, even at the International Criminal Court (ICC). She alleged that Yunus avoids such scrutiny because an impartial tribunal would clear her name, thus questioning the legitimacy of the Bangladesh International Crimes Tribunal, which has sought the death penalty against her. She denounced it as a “kangaroo tribunal” designed to eliminate her and her party as political contenders.
Hasina further argued, “They want to eliminate us as political forces. The fact that they would use the death penalty to silence opponents shows how little respect they have for democracy or due process.” She also pointed out that while Yunus may have garnered some passive support from Western liberals, that backing is diminishing as his administration’s actions against minorities and the dismantling of the constitution become evident.
Hasina’s statements reveal deep concerns about the current political climate in Bangladesh and shed light on vital issues surrounding democracy and governance. Her return hinges on the willingness of the Yunus government to address these democratic needs.
