Former Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina vows to return this year despite death sentence

Former Bangladesh prime minister Sheikh Hasina, 78, who fled to India after a student‑led uprising ousted her government in August 2024, told Indian broadcaster NDTV that she is not afraid of the death sentence handed down in absentia by a Dhaka court for incitement, ordering killings and failing to prevent atrocities. She described the verdict as “illegal, unconstitutional and politically motivated” and said, “I will return to my country this year” and that she will overcome “every obstacle and every conspiracy.”

Hasina said her planned return is aimed at restoring democratic rights, the rule of law and lifting the nationwide ban on her Awami League party, which remains prohibited under Prime Minister Tarique Rahman's administration that took office after February elections. She urged the government to release political prisoners, withdraw false cases and allow peaceful political activity. The episode underscores ongoing tensions between Bangladesh and India over her extradition and the future of Bangladesh’s political landscape.