New Delhi: Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has ruled out returning to the country under the present circumstances, alleging that the legal actions against her are “politically motivated” and aimed at her “political assassination”.
In an email interaction with ANI, Hasina said she would only go back when Bangladesh has “a legitimate government and an independent judiciary”, arguing that she cannot be asked to “return to face my political assassination”.
Hasina strongly criticised the verdict of Bangladesh’s International Crimes Tribunal (ICT), which found her guilty of crimes against humanity in connection with the July–August 2024 uprising.
She termed the ruling “a political assassination in judicial robes”, alleging that she was denied a fair trial, including the right to defend herself properly and to appoint lawyers of her choice. The former premier called the proceedings a “witch hunt against the Awami League”, even as she maintained that her faith in the country’s constitutional framework remains intact.
Pointing to recent unrest following the killing of student leader Sharif Osman Hadi, Hasina accused the interim administration headed by Muhammad Yunus of presiding over a breakdown of law and order.
“This tragic killing reflects the lawlessness that uprooted my government and has multiplied under Yunus,” she said, adding that violence has “become the norm” while the interim government either denies the situation or is unable to control it.
Hasina linked the internal turmoil to strained ties with India, accusing the Yunus-led interim government of issuing hostile statements and failing to safeguard minorities.
She said the current strain in relations with New Delhi is “entirely of Yunus’ making” and described India’s concerns over the safety of its diplomats in Bangladesh as “justified”. According to her, the chaos, persecution of minorities and erosion of past gains have undermined Bangladesh’s credibility before its neighbours and the international community.
“When you cannot maintain basic order within your borders, your credibility on the international stage collapses. This is the reality of Yunus’ Bangladesh,” she said.
On the elections scheduled for February, Hasina said any polls held without the participation of the Awami League would lack legitimacy.
“An election without the Awami League is not an election, but a coronation,” she remarked, warning that any government formed without broad-based participation would be deprived of moral authority.