Former Prime Minister of Bangladesh, Sheikh Hasina, has laid down stringent conditions for her return to her homeland. She has unequivocally stated that her return is contingent upon the restoration of participatory democracy in the country, the lifting of the ban on her political party, the Awami League, and the conduct of free, fair, and inclusive elections. Hasina, who departed Bangladesh in August 2024 amidst widespread protests, has launched. A scathing attack on the current interim government and its chief, Mohammed Yunus.
Conditions for a Democratic Return
Sheikh Hasina's primary condition for her repatriation revolves around the re-establishment of participatory democracy in Bangladesh, while she views this as a direct reflection of the democratic aspirations of the Bangladeshi populace. Participatory democracy, in her context, implies not just the right to vote but also active. Citizen involvement in policy-making and governance processes, ensuring a more inclusive and representative political system. Also, she has demanded the immediate removal of the ban imposed on her party, the Awami League, while hasina argues that excluding a major political force like the Awami League from the electoral process would fundamentally undermine the legitimacy of any election and impede genuine democratic representation within the nation. Her insistence on this condition underscores the central role her party plays in Bangladesh's political landscape.
Accusations Against the Interim Government and Mohammed Yunus
In an exclusive email interview with news agency PTI, the 78-year-old former prime minister launched a sharp critique against the interim government and its leader, Mohammed Yunus. She accused the Yunus administration of actively undermining the deep and extensive relationship between Bangladesh and India.
