Fugitive Sheikh Hasina Continues To Cast A Long Political Shadow Over Bangladesh

Two years after being forced from power, former Bangladesh prime minister Sheikh Hasina continues to loom large over the country's political landscape despite living in exile in India. The 78-year-old Awami League leader has vowed to return to Bangladesh by the end of the year, even though she faces the possibility of arrest, imprisonment and a death sentence over crimes against humanity. Her determination to return has kept her at the centre of political debate, with supporters viewing her as the only leader capable of reviving the Awami League, while critics see her as a symbol of authoritarian rule.

Hasina, who fled Bangladesh by helicopter in August 2024 following a mass uprising that ended her long tenure in office, said she is fully aware of the risks awaiting her if she returns. Speaking to AFP in July through an email sent from India, she acknowledged the possibility of severe consequences. "I may be killed. I may be arrested. I may be sent to prison," she wrote. "I am fully aware of my fate. Still, I want to go back because my people are calling me." Her remarks underscore her determination to remain politically active despite her uncertain future and the legal cases pending against her.

On Wednesday, which marks two years since her dramatic departure from Bangladesh, Hasina is expected to address a gathering in New Delhi via telephone at an event titled "Sheikh Hasina's Homecoming." The event is expected to draw supporters from the Awami League and members of the Bangladeshi diaspora, many of whom continue to express loyalty to the former prime minister. Her speech is likely to focus on her vision for Bangladesh, her political future and the challenges facing her party since it lost power.

Also Read: Sheikh Hasina Likely To Reveal Bangladesh Homecoming Plans, Vision During India Press Meet

Political analysts believe Hasina's repeated declarations about returning to Bangladesh are aimed at preserving her relevance and maintaining unity within the Awami League, which once dominated the country's politics but has since been outlawed. According to analysts, the former premier is attempting to reassure party workers that she remains committed to leading the organisation despite her exile. One senior member of the Awami League told AFP that he believed Hasina was sincere in her desire to return, arguing that she had always demonstrated resilience during previous political crises.

Supporters see Hasina as a leader who transformed Bangladesh's economy and infrastructure during her years in office, while opponents accuse her government of suppressing dissent, curbing democratic freedoms and using state institutions to silence critics. The political unrest that culminated in the 2024 revolution marked the end of her administration after months of growing public anger and widespread protests. Authorities later pursued legal proceedings against her, resulting in her conviction in absentia and a death sentence linked to crimes against humanity over the government's handling of the unrest.

The allegations against Hasina remain highly contentious and continue to divide opinion both within Bangladesh and internationally. Her supporters argue that the cases are politically motivated and intended to eliminate the Awami League from the country's political landscape. Critics, however, insist that the legal action represents accountability for alleged abuses committed during her administration. The starkly contrasting narratives have ensured that Hasina remains one of South Asia's most polarising political figures even while living outside the country.

Despite the severe legal and political challenges confronting her, Hasina has shown little indication of stepping away from public life. By continuing to issue statements, interact with supporters and participate in political events from exile, she has sought to project the image of a leader determined to reclaim her place in Bangladesh's politics. Analysts say her ability to command attention from outside the country reflects the enduring influence she continues to wield over a section of the electorate and the Awami League's organisational network.

Whether Sheikh Hasina ultimately returns to Bangladesh remains uncertain, but her pledge to do so has ensured that she remains central to discussions about the country's political future. As Bangladesh continues to navigate the aftermath of the 2024 uprising and the reshaping of its political system, the former prime minister's legacy—and her efforts to stage a political comeback from exile—are likely to remain a defining feature of the nation's evolving political landscape.

Also Read: Sheikh Hasina Cites Public Support Behind Decision To Return To Bangladesh