Post by : Raina
Al-Fahim
The ousted former Prime Minister of Bangladesh, Sheikh Hasina, has stated that her return is contingent on three pivotal elements: reinstating participatory democracy, removing the ban on the Awami League, and ensuring free, fair, and inclusive elections. In an exclusive email interview from India, where she has been living since leaving Bangladesh in August 2024 due to widespread protests against her rule, Hasina shared her thoughts.
As Bangladesh’s longest-serving prime minister, she expressed deep appreciation to India for hosting her, saying she is “immensely grateful to India’s government and its people for their kind hospitality.” She noted that India holds a crucial role as Bangladesh’s foremost international partner and reassured that the interim government does not reflect the sentiments of the Bangladeshi populace.
Reflecting on her exit, Hasina admitted, “Obviously, we lost control of the situation and that was regrettable.” She attributed some blame to experienced political figures who incited the unrest, while firmly denying allegations that she encouraged a boycott of the forthcoming elections.
She cautioned that any elections held without the Awami League would lack credibility. “Tens of millions of people support us… that would be a tremendous missed opportunity for our country, which desperately needs a government aligned with the people's true consent,” she articulated.
On international relations, Hasina criticized the interim Yunus administration for undermining Bangladesh-India ties through what she described as “foolish and self-defeating” behaviors. She accused Yunus of displaying animosity toward India, suggesting it demonstrates weak leadership influenced by extremist alliances.
In terms of legal matters, Hasina denounced Bangladesh’s International Crimes Tribunal as a “kangaroo tribunal” and reiterated her willingness to undergo scrutiny at the International Criminal Court (ICC). She claimed that Yunus evades impartial trials because he fears she would be exonerated.
Sheikh Hasina’s remarks highlight her determination to return to Bangladesh under conditions that would revive democratic governance and reinforce her party's pivotal role in shaping the nation’s future.
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