Former Prime Minister of Bangladesh Sheikh Hasina has reiterated her firm intention to return to her homeland in December 2026. She stated that she wishes to be back among her people and in her country, completely unconcerned about her personal security. Hasina remarked that if fate has ordained something different for her, she is fully prepared to accept it.
Concerns Over Democratic Freedoms and Crackdown on Awami League
Hasina voiced deep apprehension regarding the ongoing political situation within Bangladesh. She highlighted the persistent actions being taken against Awami League leaders and party workers, bringing attention to broader questions surrounding civic liberties and the integrity of democratic processes. In her remarks, she demanded the withdrawal of the ban imposed on the Awami League and called for the full restoration of fundamental political rights. Hasina also pointedly questioned the state of the rule of law, the independence of the judiciary, and freedom of expression in the nation.
Appeals to the International Community and Regional Significance
Addressing the broader global stage, Hasina urged the international community to speak out actively in defence of democracy, justice, and human rights in Bangladesh. She underscored that stability in Bangladesh holds consequences far beyond its domestic borders, directly influencing peace across South Asia as well as the entire Bay of Bengal region.
Return Aimed at National Reconciliation Amid Severe Legal Hurdles
Explaining her underlying motive, Hasina clarified that her planned return is not intended to regain state power, but rather to stand beside her citizens and guide Bangladesh back onto a democratic trajectory. She argued for broader national reconciliation and the reinstatement of the Awami League into the institutional political process. Nevertheless, any return would plunge her into severe legal battles. Hasina left Bangladesh in August 2024 to take refuge in India, following which a Bangladeshi court sentenced her to death in absentia. While Hasina has completely rejected those legal proceedings as illegitimate, the Bangladeshi government has repeatedly sought her formal extradition from India.
