Sheikh Hasina Says Return to Bangladesh Depends on Free Elections

Ousted former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has revealed that her return to Bangladesh depends on three critical factors: the restoration of participatory democracy, lifting the ban on the Awami League, and the conduct of free, fair, and inclusive elections. Hasina spoke in an exclusive email interview from India, where she has been residing since fleeing Bangladesh in August 2024 amid mass protests against her government.

Hasina, the country’s longest-serving prime minister, expressed gratitude to India for offering her refuge, stating she was “immensely grateful to India’s government and its people for their kind hospitality.” She emphasized that India has always been Bangladesh’s most important international partner and reassured that the interim government does not represent the views of the Bangladeshi people.

Addressing the circumstances that led to her departure, Hasina admitted, “Obviously, we lost control of the situation and that was regrettable.” She placed part of the blame on seasoned political figures who incited protests, while firmly rejecting claims that she encouraged a boycott of the upcoming elections.

She warned that any election excluding the Awami League would lack legitimacy. “Tens of millions of people support us… that would be a huge missed opportunity for our country, which badly needs a government ruling with the people's genuine consent,” she stated.

On foreign policy, Hasina accused the interim Yunus administration of jeopardizing Bangladesh-India relations through what she called “foolish and self-defeating” actions. She criticized Yunus for his hostility toward India, alleging it reflects weak leadership and dependence on extremist support.

Regarding legal challenges, Hasina dismissed Bangladesh’s International Crimes Tribunal as a “kangaroo tribunal” and reiterated her willingness to face international scrutiny, including at the International Criminal Court (ICC). She claimed Yunus avoids impartial trials because he knows she would be acquitted.

Sheikh Hasina’s statements underline her intention to return to Bangladesh under conditions she believes will restore democratic governance and protect her political party’s role in shaping the nation’s future.