Sheikh Hasina’s Determination to Return

Former Prime Minister of Bangladesh, Sheikh Hasina, has reiterated her intention to return to Dhaka in December, despite facing a death sentence upon her return from India. In an email response to The Associated Press, Hasina expressed her resolve, stating, “If death is my destiny, I would rather die on the soil of my own country, among my own people.” She confirmed that her decision to return has not changed.

Hasina has previously served as Prime Minister for one term from 1996 to 2001 and has held office for four consecutive terms from 2009 to 2024. Following a mass student-led uprising that resulted in the overthrow of her government in 2024, she sought asylum in New Delhi. In 2025, a special tribunal in Bangladesh sentenced her to death for alleged crimes against humanity related to a crackdown on protesters.

The crackdown reportedly resulted in hundreds of deaths and thousands of injuries, with United Nations data indicating that nearly 1,400 individuals lost their lives during the unrest. Hasina has consistently denied any wrongdoing and has challenged the legitimacy of the tribunal’s verdict.

Legal Complications Surrounding Extradition

Bangladesh has made repeated requests for India to extradite Hasina, but New Delhi has stated that the matter is under legal review. Dinesh Trivedi, India’s High Commissioner to Dhaka, remarked in an October discussion that no specific timeframe could be provided regarding Hasina’s return, emphasising that the process is structured and legal.

On Wednesday, Hasina acknowledged the potential risks associated with her return, including the possibility of arrest, imprisonment, or worse. Despite these concerns, she remains steadfast in her decision, stating, “I cannot spend the rest of my life watching my people suffer from a distance.” However, she did not disclose her planned method of travel back to Bangladesh.

Hasina’s proposed return comes at a time when her political party, the Awami League, is facing significant challenges. The party is currently banned, and many senior leaders have either been arrested or forced into exile. She alleged that approximately 20,000 party members have been killed since August 2024, with thousands more arrested or driven into hiding.

Concerns Over Political Climate and Extremism

In her statements, Hasina raised alarms about the increasing influence of extremist groups within Bangladesh, attributing this rise to the current political environment. She stated that the situation has emboldened radical elements, which poses a threat to the nation’s stability. Global rights organisations have previously expressed concerns regarding the suppression of liberal forces during the interim administration led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus.

Minority communities have reported facing intimidation, while the interim government has denied these allegations. The current administration continues to face scrutiny over the deteriorating law and order situation, which Hasina has condemned. During her tenure, she adopted a strict stance against radicalism, and her concerns reflect a broader apprehension about the shifting political landscape.

When asked if she expected international pressure from countries like the United States and India to ensure her safe return, Hasina clarified that she is not seeking foreign protection. She emphasised her commitment to maintaining friendly relations with all nations but asserted that she does not require the endorsement of any foreign power to return to her homeland.

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