NEW DELHI: Former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina of Bangladesh has called on her fellow citizens to rise against the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus, claiming it cannot guarantee free and fair elections. This appeal came during her first public address in India, just weeks before the scheduled general elections on February 12.
Speaking at a gathering focused on “Saving Democracy in Bangladesh,” Hasina emphasized the need for an end to violence and lawlessness in her home country. She stressed the importance of protecting the rights of religious minorities, women, and vulnerable communities, and called for a thorough investigation by the United Nations into events occurring since her government was ousted.
Hasina, the leader of the Awami League, has been living in India since she left Bangladesh amid widespread protests in August 2024. In her message, she accused Yunus of being a “power-hungry traitor” involved in plots against her government. She urged the nation to unite and revive the spirit of the Liberation War.
With the Awami League barred from participating in the upcoming elections, Hasina demanded that the existing Yunus-led administration be removed to restore democracy. She declared that Bangladesh cannot have genuine elections while Yunus’s influence remains.
The former Prime Minister highlighted the need for stability and the ending of daily violence for the betterment of the economy. She insisted on creating a safe environment for everyone, especially for those facing political persecution.
Hasina’s statements are seen as an attempt to keep her party relevant amid fears that the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) may dominate the elections. Many Awami League leaders have fled into exile, leaving the party’s future uncertain.
In her critique of Yunus, Hasina described him as corrupt and accused him of allowing extremist forces to thrive. She lamented the current state of democracy, saying it has been pushed into exile, and highlighted the lack of press freedom and the ongoing threat to human rights.
The event also featured other Awami League figures who echoed her concerns about the fairness of the upcoming elections. Despite her repeated criticisms of Yunus, the Indian government has yet to respond to requests regarding Hasina’s extradition.
