Sheikh Hasina Claims Opponents Want to Erase Mujibur Rahman’s Legacy

Former Bangladesh prime minister Sheikh Hasina addressed her first media conference in two years through a video link from New Delhi on Wednesday. The briefing coincided with the second anniversary of her removal from power following a student-led uprising in Bangladesh in 2024.

Hasina, 78, has been living in India since her government was toppled on August 5, 2024. During the virtual briefing, she spoke about the political situation in Bangladesh and alleged that those currently in power were attempting to erase the legacy of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the country’s founding leader and her father.

The former prime minister also discussed the possibility of returning to Bangladesh, saying she could face arrest or even be killed if she went back. Her remarks reflected the serious legal and security risks she believes she faces following the collapse of her government and the subsequent proceedings against her.

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Hasina was sentenced to death in absentia by a tribunal, according to the available report. Her continued presence in India and public political interventions have remained sensitive issues amid tensions involving Bangladesh’s current authorities and the Awami League, the party she led while in office.

The press conference was organised as a private event, and India distanced itself from the proceedings. No further details were provided in the available report about the organisers, participants or whether Indian officials had any involvement in facilitating the virtual address from New Delhi.

Hasina’s appearance marked a significant return to public engagement after two years without a formal media conference. Her comments about Mujibur Rahman’s legacy, the legal action against her and the dangers she associates with returning home are likely to intensify political debate in Bangladesh.

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