Ousted former Prime Minister of Bangladesh, Sheikh Hasina, announced her return to the country will only occur after the restoration of “participatory democracy,” the lifting of the ban on her party, the Awami League, and the conduction of free and fair elections. In an exclusive email interview with PTI from an undisclosed location in India, Hasina criticized the unelected administration led by Dr. Muhammad Yunus, claiming it jeopardizes relations with India and empowers extremist factions.
Hasina expressed profound gratitude towards the Indian government for providing her refuge, stating, “I am immensely grateful to India’s government and its people for their kind hospitality.”
As Bangladesh’s longest-serving leader, Hasina, who left her country on August 5, 2024, due to violent anti-government protests, recognized the need for a significant shift in governance before her return is feasible. “The most crucial condition for my return to Bangladesh is the same condition the Bangladeshi people require: a return to participatory democracy,” she stated firmly.
The former leader insisted that lifting the ban on the Awami League is paramount to restoring the political landscape in Bangladesh. “An election without the Awami League is devoid of legitimacy, as our support base encompasses tens of millions of citizens,” she emphasized. Hasina maintained that excluding her party from the electoral process represents a grave missed opportunity for a nation in urgent need of a government formed through genuine public consent.
When questioned about her government’s handling of recent protests, Hasina conceded, “Obviously, we lost control of the situation and that was regrettable.” She attributed the unrest to seasoned political figures disguised as student leaders, igniting the tensions.
Addressing allegations of encouraging a boycott of the upcoming polls scheduled for February 2025, Hasina firmly rejected such claims. To her, the real issue lies in the government led by Yunus, which she critiqued vigorously for its anti-India stance. “Yunus’ hostility towards India is foolish and self-defeating. His administration is chaotic, unelected, and vulnerable to extremist influences,” she warned, underscoring the potential diplomatic ramifications.
Reassuring Indian citizens unsettled by Bangladesh’s political turmoil, Hasina stated, “The interim government does not represent what our people think. India is and will remain our nation’s most important friend.”
Hasina also declared her willingness to stand trial under international supervision, including at the International Criminal Court (ICC). She accused Yunus of dodging similar scrutiny, as “an impartial tribunal would acquit me.” Hasina critiqued the Bangladesh International Crimes Tribunal, which has pursued the death penalty against her, dismissing it as a “kangaroo tribunal” intended to eliminate political opposition.
“They seek to remove us as a political force. Their willingness to use the death penalty to silence dissent reveals their utter disregard for democracy and due process,” she noted. Furthermore, she remarked that Yunus initially benefitted from the backing of certain Western liberals, a support structure she believes is unraveling as they observe his inclination to incorporate radical elements into his administration, discriminate against minorities, and dismantle constitutional norms.
In summary, Sheikh Hasina’s impending return to Bangladesh rests firmly on the assurance of democratic integrity, signifying a critical moment in the nation’s political trajectory. Her call for inclusivity stresses the importance of the Awami League in fostering a legitimate government that reflects the will of the Bangladeshi people, while also aiming to safeguard vital India-Bangladesh relations.
