Sheikh Hasina News: Four Signs from Dhaka Hint at Sheikh Hasina's Return to Bangladesh Elections

Speculation is rife in Bangladesh's political circles regarding the potential return of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and her Awami League party to the electoral fray, while following a coup in August 2024, the Awami League was banned, but four significant signs emerging from Dhaka now strongly suggest that the path to elections might be reopening for the party. These developments are undoubtedly welcome news for Awami League supporters, indicating a major shift in Bangladesh's political landscape.

Background to the Political Turmoil

Bangladesh has experienced a period of political instability since the coup in August 2024. This upheaval led to the banning of the Awami League, the country's oldest party, which had been in power for 23 years. Sheikh Hasina, the leader of the Awami League, was ousted from power. This turn of events created a significant vacuum in Bangladeshi politics, and since then, uncertainty has prevailed regarding the conduct of inclusive and peaceful elections. However, recent developments suggest that the Awami League might once again be poised to enter the electoral race.

Sign 1: Violence Deters Hardliners

The assassination of Usman Hadi of Iqbal Manch immediately after the election announcement in Bangladesh triggered a new wave of violence in the country. Hadi, considered a staunch political adversary of Sheikh Hasina, sparked widespread. Unrest following his death, posing significant challenges for the interim government. This violence has also instilled fear among Bangladesh's fundamentalist leaders, while prominent figures such as the Ameer of Jamaat-e-Islami, the Chief of NCP, and the Acting Chairman of BNP are now reportedly fearing targeted killings, prompting them to demand enhanced security. The government has also decided to issue gun licenses to electoral candidates, underscoring the prevailing security concerns, while against this backdrop, NCP Chief Nahid Islam, a staunch opponent of Sheikh Hasina, made a crucial statement. Islam declared that he would have no objection if the Awami League were permitted to contest the elections, provided Sheikh Hasina herself wasn't involved. Khaleda Zia's BNP party has also expressed no objection to the Awami League's participation, signaling a softening stance among the hardline factions.

Sign 2: Significant Judicial Reshuffle

Until recently, the Yunus government had enjoyed the support of Bangladesh's judiciary on matters concerning Sheikh Hasina. However, there appears to be a shift in the judiciary's stance. Zubair Rahman, considered a close associate of Sheikh Hasina, has been appointed as the new Chief Justice of Bangladesh, while the impact of this appointment was evident during a court hearing on Tuesday, December 23, at the International Tribunal. The judge reportedly reprimanded the government lawyer. According to The Daily Star, Tajul Islam, the Yunus government's lawyer, was insistent on an immediate conviction for Sheikh Hasina on charges of genocide. The judge firmly told Tajul that court decisions wouldn't be made according to his wishes and that a verdict would be delivered only after a full hearing. Sheikh Hasina's lawyers would also be given ample opportunity to present evidence and. Arguments, indicating a move towards greater impartiality and a change in the judiciary's approach.

Sign 3: International Pressure for Inclusive Elections

International pressure on Bangladesh's interim government to hold peaceful and inclusive elections has intensified, while major global powers such as the United States, China, and Russia have issued statements demanding fair elections. India has also advocated for inclusive elections in Bangladesh, while the international community believes that peaceful elections in Bangladesh are only possible with the participation of major political forces like the Awami League. Sheikh Hasina has openly stated that if her party isn't allowed to contest, neither she nor her supporters will remain silent. The Awami League still commands a strong popular base in Bangladesh, and its absence could raise questions about the legitimacy and peaceful conduct of any election.

Sign 4: Formation of a 14-Party Alliance

Fourteen parties that previously contested elections with Sheikh Hasina in Bangladesh have formed a strong alliance, while this alliance further bolsters the prospects of the Awami League's return. These parties are actively working on ground-level preparations to ensure they can contest with full force if elections are held. Leaders from these 14 parties have become active across all. 300 constituencies in Bangladesh, striving to establish their presence among voters. To form a government in Bangladesh, 151 seats are required,. And this alliance is working unitedly to achieve this goal. This coalition isn't only mobilizing support for the Awami League but also signaling the emergence of a strong opposition front eager to participate in the electoral process. Collectively, these four developments point towards a critical juncture for Bangladesh's political future. The potential return of the Awami League could bring political stability to the country and ensure a more inclusive democratic process.