Sheikh Hasina Breaks Silence on Bangladesh Unrest
Ousted Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has spoken out for the first time since leaving Dhaka, condemning the recent wave of violence and vandalism that has swept the country. In a heartfelt statement posted on social media by her son, Hasina expressed her deep sadness and concern over the destruction and loss of life that has occurred in the name of protest.Hasina’s statement began with a poignant tribute to her family members who were brutally assassinated on August 15, 1975, when her father, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, was overthrown in a military coup. She remembered the tragic loss of her father, brothers, sisters-in-law, and other close relatives, who were all killed in a single night.Turning to the present day, Hasina lamented the “dance of destruction” that has engulfed Bangladesh, resulting in the deaths of innocent students, teachers, police officers, journalists, social workers, and ordinary citizens. She demanded that those responsible for the violence and vandalism be brought to justice and punished accordingly.Hasina’s statement also expressed her outrage and sorrow over the desecration of her father’s statue and the destruction of the house where she grew up, which had been converted into a museum. She saw this as a personal attack on her family’s legacy and a disservice to the memory of the thousands of freedom fighters who fought for Bangladesh’s independence under her father’s leadership.The former Prime Minister called on her countrymen to mark August 15 as a day of mourning, to pay respects to the martyrs, and to pray for peace and stability in Bangladesh. She also reiterated her commitment to returning to Bangladesh whenever elections are held, as stated by her son.Hasina’s statement comes after weeks of student protests that began over a quota system for government jobs but eventually escalated into demands for her resignation. The government’s resistance to the protests sparked violence, prompting the army to intervene and ultimately leading to Hasina’s resignation under a 45-minute ultimatum.The 76-year-old leader is currently in India, with her next destination unknown. However, her determination to return to Bangladesh and continue her political journey remains unwavering. A Life of Resilience and LeadershipSheikh Hasina’s life has been marked by tragedy, resilience, and leadership. She was just 28 when her father was assassinated, and she spent years in exile before returning to Bangladesh to lead the Awami League party founded by her father. Her political career culminated in her becoming the first woman Prime Minister of Bangladesh in 1996.Throughout her life, Hasina has demonstrated remarkable strength and courage in the face of adversity. Her statement on the current unrest in Bangladesh is a testament to her unwavering commitment to her country and its people.As Bangladesh navigates this tumultuous period, Hasina’s voice and leadership will be crucial in shaping the country’s future. Her call for justice, peace, and stability resonates deeply, and her determination to return to Bangladesh and continue her political journey is a beacon of hope for a nation in turmoil.
