Sheikh Hasina’s return bid threatens to upend Bangladeshi politics

Ousted former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has declared her intention to return to Bangladesh in December, despite facing a death sentence. Her potential return, while living in India since her government was overthrown nearly two years ago, could lead to a significant comeback for her party, the Awami League. Analysts suggest this development may reignite the rivalry between the Awami League and the ruling Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP). Furthermore, her return is seen as potentially limiting the further growth of Islamist political forces in the country.

Exiled former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina plans to return to Bangladesh in December, despite facing a death sentence. She stated her intention to Reuters from India, where she has been living for two years. Hasina aims to challenge the legal ban on her Awami League party and has urged other exiled party members to join her in surrendering to the courts. Her return is expected to create a legal confrontation with current Dhaka leaders and could impact political stability following a 2024 uprising against her rule. Hasina expressed readiness to face arrest or death upon her return, stating she wishes to die on her own soil.