Sheikh Hasina Expresses Determination to Return to Bangladesh Despite Risks

Washington, October 20 (Daily Kiran) : Former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina of Bangladesh has expressed her unwavering intention to return to her country, undeterred by the potential dangers she may face. Speaking virtually at a press conference from Washington, Hasina emphasized that she cannot remain away while her supporters and the general populace in Bangladesh endure hardships.

Hasina stated that she is ready to face arrest, torture, or even threats to her life upon her return. “No matter how risky the return may be, I do not care. I must go back,” she declared.

After her government fell in August 2024, Hasina was compelled to leave Bangladesh. Currently residing in India, she thanked the Indian government and its people for providing refuge and support during her time of need. “I am grateful to the Indian government, the people here, and all parties. They welcomed me just as they did in 1975,” she remarked.

She recalled the tragic events of 1975 when many members of her family were killed, leaving her and her sister as the only survivors. Hasina acknowledged that returning to Bangladesh could result in imprisonment or violence, but she believes it is her duty as a political leader to stand with her supporters. She reflected on her past experiences, including her return to Bangladesh in 1981 after spending several years abroad following the assassination of her father, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, and other family members.

Hasina also mentioned the political emergency of 2007, during which she faced criminal charges yet chose to return to her homeland. She accused the current political leadership in Bangladesh of using legal cases against her and other leaders of the Awami League to suppress political opposition.

Questioning the validity of these cases, she insisted that accusations against political leaders should be resolved through a fair judicial process. However, she did not specify a date for her return. Her son, Sajeeb Wazed Joy, later informed reporters that a date has not yet been set but will be announced at the appropriate time.

In her appeal to the United States, Hasina urged Washington to support democratic institutions, multiparty politics, and fair elections in Bangladesh rather than favoring any single leader or political party. “My message to America is to choose democracy, not Sheikh Hasina or any other leader,” she stated.

She asserted that the future of Bangladesh should be determined through an inclusive democratic process led by its people. Hasina called for an independent judiciary, freedom of expression, the right to form political organizations, protection of minorities, and adherence to the rule of law. She warned that excluding any political party from the democratic process would only deepen divisions and hinder national reconciliation efforts.

“Those who oppose my government are also citizens of this country, and their rights must be respected. The future of Bangladesh should be built on reconciliation, not revenge,” she added. Hasina acknowledged that her government faces difficult questions regarding its governance and the events surrounding the protests in 2024.

She emphasized that all accusations, whether against her or others, should be investigated through a transparent and fair legal process.