In a striking revelation, ousted former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina stated she will return to her homeland only when there is a restoration of “participatory democracy.” The leader insisted that the ban on her political party, the Awami League, must be lifted, and free, fair, and inclusive elections conducted under a legitimate government.
Hasina shared her thoughts in an exclusive email interview with the Press Trust of India (PTI) from an undisclosed location in India. She directed harsh criticism at the interim government led by Dr. Muhammad Yunus, labeling it unelected and asserting that it threatens Bangladesh’s critical diplomatic relations with India while bolstering extremist elements.
“I am immensely grateful to India’s government and its people for their kind hospitality,” Hasina expressed her gratitude towards India, where she sought refuge following her resignation and a chaotic exit from Bangladesh on August 5, 2024, amidst escalating anti-government protests.
Discussing her conditions for a possible return, she asserted, “The most important condition for my return to Bangladesh is the same condition that the Bangladeshi people require: a return to participatory democracy.” She emphasized that any election without the Awami League would lack legitimacy and represent a missed chance for the nation.
“Tens of millions of people support us. It would be a huge missed opportunity for a country that badly needs a government with the genuine consent of the people,” she maintained, dismissing assertions that she had called for a boycott of the upcoming February elections.
In a stinging critique of the Yunus administration, Hasina argued that its growing hostility towards India jeopardizes one of Bangladesh’s most vital international partnerships. “Yunus’ hostility to India is foolish and self-defeating,” she stated. “He is unelected, chaotic, and dependent on extremist forces.”
Addressing concerns among Indian citizens over the political situation in Bangladesh, Hasina reassured that, “The interim government doesn’t represent what our people think. India is and will remain our nation’s most important friend.”
On the legal front, Hasina indicated her willingness to stand trial under international supervision, even at the International Criminal Court (ICC), challenging the Yunus administration to submit her to an impartial tribunal. “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 claimed.
She denounced the Bangladesh International Crimes Tribunal, which has sought the death penalty against her, as a “kangaroo tribunal” orchestrated to politically neutralize her and the Awami League. Hasina rejected claims that the tribunal functions justly, illustrating her stance that the current regime aims to stifle dissent.
Furthermore, Hasina pointed out that Yunus initially enjoyed the “passive support of some Western liberals,” but expressed concerns that this support wanes as they observe his governance devolving into actions such as empowering radicals and marginalizing minorities. “They see him placing radicals in his cabinet, discriminating against minorities, and dismantling the constitution,” she added.
As Bangladesh approaches a critical political juncture, the future remains uncertain. The developments surrounding Sheikh Hasina and her party’s struggle for democracy underscore the complexities of governance and international relations in South Asia. Her emphatic call for democracy sheds light on the vital need for political stability and public consent in Bangladesh.
