In a significant political development that has sent ripples through the South Asian region, former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has expressed her firm resolve to return to her homeland by the end of 2026. This decision comes at a time when she faces an overwhelming number of legal challenges, including more than 150 criminal cases and a death sentence recently handed down by a Bangladeshi court. Despite the severe legal threats and the risk of execution, Hasina remains undeterred in her plan to re-enter the political landscape of Dhaka.
The Context of Exile and Legal Battles
Sheikh Hasina's departure from Bangladesh occurred in 2024 following a coup that was triggered by the July uprising. Since then, she has been residing in New Delhi, having been transported there via a special aircraft. Her tenure, which ended abruptly, has been followed by a barrage of legal proceedings. Currently, there are over 150 cases registered against her in various courts across Bangladesh. Out of these, she has already been found guilty in 10 cases. Most notably, a court in Bangladesh recently sentenced her to death for crimes against humanity, a verdict that adds a layer of extreme risk to her planned return.
A Defiant Stance Amidst Mortal Danger
In a recent conversation with the news agency AFP, Sheikh Hasina addressed the question of her return with a sense of defiance and duty. She acknowledged the gravity of the situation, stating that she's fully aware of the preparations being made to execute her upon her arrival. However, she emphasized that her decision is driven by the calls of her people. "I know that there are preparations to hang me there. Despite this, I will go there because my own people are calling me," she remarked, highlighting her commitment to her supporters and her political legacy.
The Narrative of Legacy and Identity
One of the primary reasons behind Hasina's decision to return is the preservation of her political and personal narrative. As she enters the final phase of her life and political career, she views her entire existence as being dedicated to Bangladesh. Being the daughter of the founder of Bangladesh, she feels a deep-rooted connection to the nation. By returning, she aims to dismantle the image of a leader who fled the country in a time of crisis. She wishes to spend her final years in her own country, reinforcing her identity as a leader who stands by her nation regardless of the personal cost.
Strong Political Base and Public Sentiment
Despite her exile, Sheikh Hasina continues to command a significant following within Bangladesh. Data from a survey conducted in December 2024 revealed that 57 percent of the respondents believe that her party, the Awami League, is essential for democracy in Bangladesh. Plus, a Prothom Alo survey from February 2026 indicated that 25 percent of the people openly questioned and opposed the ban on the Awami League. This suggests that a substantial portion of the population still views her leadership and her party as vital components of the country's political fabric.
Secularism vs. Radicalism
Sheikh Hasina has long projected herself as a secular leader, a stance that has earned her considerable popularity in urban areas of Bangladesh. Throughout her career, she has positioned herself as a bulwark against radical groups like the Jamaat-e-Islami, while in recent times, reports of increased oppression by radical elements in Bangladesh have surfaced. The Awami League has been actively highlighting these issues, framing Hasina's return as a necessary step to counter the rising influence of extremism and to restore the secular values she championed.
Critique of the Current Administration
The political landscape in Bangladesh changed Importantly after Hasina's departure, with the interim government introducing constitutional amendments and conducting elections. While the BNP emerged victorious, the government led by Tarique Rahman has faced criticism for not implementing the promised amendments and continuing with old administrative patterns. This has provided the Awami League with a potent political issue. By returning, Hasina intends to argue that her previous actions and policies were justified in comparison to the current state of governance.
The Survival of the Awami League
There is a growing concern within the Awami League that the party is weakening in Hasina's absence. Party insiders believe that if she doesn't return soon, the party's position will deteriorate further. The government under Tarique Rahman is reportedly planning to introduce new laws that could potentially lead to the complete dismantling of the Awami League. Hasina's strategy is to return and initiate a mass movement before such legal measures can be fully enacted, thereby ensuring the survival of her political organization.
Economic Stagnation and Industrial Decline
The economic situation in Bangladesh has also become a focal point for Hasina's supporters. According to leaders of the Awami League, the pace of development in the country has come to a standstill. They claim that there has been zero investment in terms of taka over the last 2 years. Also, the textile industry, which is a cornerstone of the Bangladeshi economy, is reportedly facing a shutdown due to strained relations with India, while hasina's return is being framed as a solution to these economic woes, suggesting that her leadership is necessary to restore international confidence and revive the nation's industrial growth.