Sheikh Hasina says her return to Bangladesh key to restoring democracy

Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina said her return to Bangladesh is part of the struggle to bring back democracy, rule of law and voting rights in the country.

In an interview with news agency PTI, Hasina launched a scathing attack on the Tarique Rahman government and said that under the current dispensation, Bangladesh is going through a grave national crisis and its democratic space has been closed.

“Extremist forces have regained space in Bangladesh now,” Hasina said, adding: “People of Bangladesh must be allowed to decide their own future through a free, fair and inclusive election… My return will be significant as it will be a step towards returning Bangladesh to its people.”

Hasina has been residing at an undisclosed location in India ever since her ouster during Bangladesh’s July uprising in 2024. In September this year, Hasina said she was preparing to return to Bangladesh and face imprisonment, but the larger question that remains is ‘how’ so that it “protects the interests of our nation and its citizens”.

“I want to stand beside the people of Bangladesh, fight for their rights, and help restore democracy, security and development,” she told PTI.

On Tarique Rahman skipping BRICS summit

Speaking about CM Rahman skipping the BRICS summit, she termed the decision “immature” and said it damaged Bangladesh’s national interest.

“It was deeply unfortunate that Bangladesh chose not to participate in the BRICS summit in India. Bangladesh’s participation in the BRICS summit would have opened new opportunities for its economic and social development,” Hasina said

Story continues below this ad

She opined that foreign policy cannot be conducted through personal reaction or short-term political calculation. “Bangladesh needs a mature, balanced and confident foreign policy,” Hasina said.

–with inputs from PTI

The Express Global Desk at indianexpress.com which delivers authoritative, verified, and context-driven coverage of key international developments shaping global politics, policy, and migration trends. The desk focuses on stories with direct relevance for Indian and global audiences, combining breaking news with in-depth explainers and analysis. A major focus area of the desk is US immigration and visa policy, including developments related to student visas, work permits, permanent residency pathways, executive actions, and court rulings. The Global Desk also closely tracks Canada’s immigration, visa, and study policies, covering changes to study permits, post-study work options, permanent residence programmes, and regulatory updates affecting migrants and international students. All reporting from the Global Desk adheres to The Indian Express’ editorial standards, relying on official data, government notifications, court documents, and on-record sources. The desk prioritises clarity, accuracy, and accountability, ensuring readers can navigate complex global systems with confidence. Core Team The Express Global Desk is led by a team of experienced journalists and editors with deep expertise in international affairs and migration policy: Aniruddha Dhar – Senior Assistant Editor with extensive experience in global affairs, international politics, and editorial leadership. Nischai Vats – Deputy Copy Editor specialising in US politics, US visa and immigration policy, and policy-driven international coverage. Mashkoora Khan – Sub-editor focusing on global developments, with a strong emphasis on Canada visa, immigration, and study-related policy coverage. ... Read More

Stay updated with the latest - Click here to follow us on Instagram