Former Bangladesh prime minister Sheikh Hasina on Wednesday announced that she intends to return to Bangladesh in December, saying she is prepared to face imprisonment or even the possibility of a death sentence in her effort to restore democracy in the country. Speaking during an audio-only virtual press conference, Hasina said she remained committed to putting Bangladesh back on what she described as the "right track" despite the personal risks involved. She also ruled out any back-channel negotiations with the current Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP)-led government regarding her return.

The virtual press conference marked Hasina's first public interaction with the media since she fled to India on August 5, 2024, amid widespread anti-government protests that forced her to leave office. Participants in the briefing could hear her remarks but were not able to see her, as the event was conducted without video. During the interaction, Hasina reiterated her determination to return to Bangladesh and accused the current administration of undermining democratic institutions and political freedoms.

Hasina also called for the immediate removal of the ban imposed on the Awami League, the political party she led for years, and demanded the release of political prisoners. She appealed to the international community to support the people of Bangladesh in what she described as their struggle for democracy, justice and the restoration of constitutional governance. Her remarks signalled that she intends to remain politically active despite being outside the country for the past year.

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The Bangladesh government reacted strongly to the virtual media interaction. The country's foreign ministry said Bangladesh was "outraged" that the press conference had been allowed to take place despite Dhaka conveying its concerns to New Delhi over the potential impact such an event could have on bilateral relations. The ministry indicated that it had communicated its reservations to the Indian government before the media interaction, arguing that the event could have diplomatic consequences.

Relations between Bangladesh and India have remained under close scrutiny since Hasina's departure, with her continued presence in India becoming a sensitive issue between the two neighbours. Bangladesh's interim authorities have maintained their criticism of Hasina, while the former prime minister has continued to make public statements from outside the country. Her latest declaration of returning in December is likely to intensify political debate as Bangladesh prepares for its next phase of political developments.

Hasina's announcement comes against the backdrop of continued political uncertainty in Bangladesh, where the transition of power following last year's unrest has reshaped the country's political landscape. Whether she will be able to return as planned remains uncertain, but her remarks underscore her intention to re-enter Bangladesh's political arena despite legal and political challenges. The statement is also expected to draw significant domestic and international attention as developments unfold in the months ahead.

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