Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has reiterated her plan to return to the country in December, saying she is prepared to face arrest, violence or torture despite the risks under the government led by Tarique Rahman. However, no specific date has been finalised for her return.
Speaking virtually at a press conference organised in Washington, Hasina said returning to Bangladesh was her responsibility and that the possibility of facing serious consequences would not change her decision.
"I will go back to Bangladesh in December. I am not afraid. I know they can kill me, arrest me and torture me...It's my responsibility to go," she said.
"How risky it is, I don't care. I have to go back," she added.
Her son, Sajeeb Wazed Joy, later clarified that the date had not been decided and that an announcement would be made closer to the planned return.
Hasina thanks India for providing refuge
Hasina, who has been living in India since her government collapsed in August 2024, expressed gratitude to the Indian government and people for offering her refuge after she left Bangladesh.
"Well, thanks to the Indian government and the people, all party, they received me just like in 1975," she said.
She drew parallels with earlier periods in her life when she faced political upheaval. After the assassination of her father, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, and several other family members in 1975, Hasina and her sister survived while abroad. She returned to Bangladesh in 1981.
She also recalled returning in 2007, during a political emergency when she faced criminal allegations.
Calls for fair trials and democratic participation
Hasina accused the current political leadership of using criminal proceedings against her and Awami League members to target political opponents. She argued that allegations against political leaders should be addressed through impartial judicial proceedings rather than used to restrict political participation.
The former prime minister called for free and inclusive elections, independent courts, freedom of expression, the right to political association and protection for minorities.
"I ask that Bangladeshis determine their government through free, inclusive political processes," she said.
She also stressed the need to protect the rights of those who oppose her, saying Bangladesh's future should not be shaped by political retaliation.
"Equally, those who oppose my government are citizens whose rights must be respected. The future of Bangladesh must be built on reconciliation, not revenge," she said.
Acknowledges questions over 2024 protests
Hasina also addressed the controversy surrounding her administration and the protests that led to its collapse in 2024.
"I acknowledge the difficult questions surrounding my government, the events of 2024 and their aftermath," she said.
She maintained that allegations against all individuals, including herself, should be examined through transparent and impartial legal proceedings.