Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina delivered an emotional public address on Wednesday, saying that although she was forced to leave her homeland, she has never been separated from the people of Bangladesh. Speaking for the first time in nearly two years since her ouster, Hasina became visibly emotional as she reflected on the political upheaval that forced her into exile and pledged to continue her fight for the country she led for over a decade.
Hasina Recalls Pain of Leaving Bangladesh
During her address, Hasina said she had endured immense personal pain after being compelled to leave Bangladesh in 2024 amid widespread protests and political turmoil. Holding back tears, she remarked that while she had been physically removed from her country, her emotional bond with its people remained unbroken.
She expressed gratitude to supporters who, according to her, continued to stand by the Awami League despite what she described as difficult political circumstances. Hasina insisted that her commitment to Bangladesh had never weakened and said her dream of serving the nation remained alive despite living outside the country.
Questions 2024 Uprising, Defends Her Government
The former prime minister strongly rejected the narrative surrounding the 2024 movement that led to her removal from office. She argued that the unrest was not merely a student-led protest but was influenced by organized political forces with a broader agenda.
Hasina claimed that many students were emotionally manipulated and that the demonstrations eventually turned into a coordinated campaign aimed at toppling her elected government. She maintained that her administration had worked for the country’s development and questioned the version of events presented after her departure.
According to Hasina, the people of Bangladesh deserved a complete and transparent account of what happened during the violence that engulfed the nation. She alleged that efforts were made to suppress facts surrounding the crisis and called for the truth to emerge through an impartial process.
Calls for Awami League’s Return
Hasina also appealed for the restoration of political space for the Awami League, asserting that banning the party would undermine democratic values. She argued that millions of Bangladeshis continued to support the party and should not be denied political representation.
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The former premier reaffirmed her intention to return to Bangladesh and participate in the country’s democratic process. She expressed confidence that her party would once again earn the trust of the people through elections whenever conditions permitted.
Her remarks marked the clearest indication yet that she intends to remain politically active despite legal and political challenges awaiting her in Bangladesh.
India Distances Itself From Event
Ahead of Hasina’s address, India’s Ministry of External Affairs clarified that the Government of India had no role in organizing the event. Officials stated that the programme was hosted by a private organisation and did not reflect the views or endorsement of the Indian government.
The clarification came after Bangladesh sought an explanation regarding Hasina’s planned public remarks from Indian soil. New Delhi reiterated that it was neither associated with the event nor responsible for the opinions expressed during the programme.
Political Tensions Continue
Hasina’s appearance comes as political divisions in Bangladesh remain deep following the dramatic events of August 2024, when she left the country after nationwide protests. Since then, Bangladesh’s political landscape has undergone significant changes, with continuing debates over accountability, democratic institutions and the country’s future direction.
Her latest speech is expected to intensify political discussions both within Bangladesh and among the Bangladeshi diaspora. Supporters view her address as a reaffirmation of her commitment to the nation, while critics continue to hold her government responsible for the events that preceded her departure.
As Bangladesh navigates its evolving political landscape, Hasina’s emotional message signals that she intends to remain an influential voice in the country’s politics, insisting that exile has not weakened her determination to return and reconnect with the people she says she never truly left behind.
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