Bangladesh's former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina Wajed, who was ousted during a mass uprising in 2024 and fled to India, has vowed to return to her home country this December. Before her ouster, Hasina ordered a violent crackdown against student protesters, which killed hundreds and left thousands injured.
According to the United Nations (UN), around 1,400 people were killed during the uprising. In 2025, the former PM was sentenced to death in absentia by the International Crimes Tribunal in Dhaka for crimes against humanity and the violent handling of the protests.
Bangladesh's long-serving former PM has rejected the tribunal's decision, questioning the trial's legitimacy and denying any wrongdoing. In an email interview with the Associated Press (AP), Hasina stated she was ready to face prison or even death rather than stay in exile.
She said: "If death is my destiny, I would rather die on the soil of my own country, among my own people." Bangladesh has repeatedly sought her extradition, but India has not handed her over. Her planned return comes as the Awami League, the party she has led for decades, remains effectively sidelined from political activities.
The party was barred from contesting February's general elections, which brought Bangladesh Nationalist Party leader Tarique Rahman to power. Hasina accused the current government of targeting her supporters, claiming that thousands had been arrested or forced into hiding.
The government maintains that arrests have been made in connection with specific criminal allegations. Political analysts suggest that Hasina's return could trigger further instability in a nation already grappling with the aftermath of a regime change.
The interim administration and the current leadership have emphasized that the rule of law must prevail, regardless of political stature. As December approaches, the diplomatic tension between Dhaka and New Delhi is expected to intensify regarding her potential transit or extradition status.
The international community remains watchful, as the case of Sheikh Hasina represents a significant test for the judicial independence of the new administration in Dhaka. Human rights organizations have called for a transparent process, while the Awami League continues to demand the restoration of its political rights.
For now, the former leader remains in India, awaiting the outcome of a complex geopolitical standoff.