Suryaa International Desk: Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has announced her intention to return to her home country in December. Responding to questions from the Associated Press via email, Hasina stated that her decision to return remains unchanged despite facing serious allegations and a death sentence. She expressed that if death is inevitable, she prefers to face it on her own soil among her people.
Hasina acknowledged the possibility of arrest, torture, or death upon her return, stating she is aware of these risks. She noted that she cannot remain away while her party members and the people of her country face difficulties. Hasina lost power in August 2024 following a student-led movement and has since been residing in India. A tribunal has subsequently issued a death sentence against her in absentia for alleged crimes against humanity.
Hasina alleged that illegal cases have been filed against her and senior leaders, including former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal, as part of political retaliation. She stated that it is her responsibility to return while her party faces suppression and accusations of being a banned organization. Although the Dhaka government has requested her extradition from New Delhi, Hasina maintained that her decision to return is her own and not influenced by any government pressure. Her planned return in December has drawn significant attention within Bangladesh's political circles.