Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina says she will return home only after free, fair, and inclusive elections take place. She also demands the lifting of the ban on the Awami League.
Speaking from India in an email interview with PTI, Hasina thanked the Indian government for giving her refuge. She accused the Yunus-led interim administration of empowering extremists and damaging Bangladesh’s ties with India.
Hasina left Bangladesh on August 5, 2024, after weeks of violent protests forced her to resign. She admitted her government lost control but blamed “political firebrands” for inciting unrest.
She denied calling for an election boycott and said polls without the Awami League would lack legitimacy. “Millions support us,” she said.
Hasina criticised Yunus’ “foolish hostility” toward India and warned it could harm the long-standing friendship between both nations.
She said she was ready to face trial under international supervision, even at the International Criminal Court, but accused Yunus of avoiding fair legal scrutiny.
Calling Bangladesh’s tribunal a “kangaroo court,” Hasina said it was being used to silence her and her party.
