Story perspectives

Ex-PM Hasina Vows 2026 Return Despite Death Sentence

6/29/2026

Summary

Sheikh Hasina Returns

Former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina (78) said she will return to Bangladesh before year-end 2026 despite a death sentence.
She fled to India after a student-led uprising ousted her in August 2024.
A Dhaka court sentenced her to death in November 2024 for inciting killings and failing to stop atrocities.
She called the verdict illegal and urged Prime Minister Tarique Rahman's government to lift the Awami League ban and release prisoners.

Summary

Hasina Condemns Army

Hasina condemned the army, Border Guard Bangladesh and police at the Awami League anniversary, saying their actions showed official fear of the party.
She urged supporters to protect minorities, women, children and other marginalized groups, framing the party’s agenda on rights and dignity.
She said pro-Awami League rallies persisted nationwide despite the ban and that persecution, likened to gold purified by fire, only strengthened the party.

Summary

Hasina Celebrates

The Awami League celebrated its 77th anniversary on June 23, 2026, despite a nationwide ban.
Public celebrations prompted security crackdowns, leading forces to detain dozens of party activists.
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina accused the Tarique Rahman-led government of weakening the economy, spreading extremism and pressuring minorities.
She said Bangladeshis are reassessing the political direction and that the Awami League’s societal roots remain its greatest strength.

History

Historical Context

On 15 August 1975 mid-ranking officers assassinated President Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, installing Khondaker Mostaq Ahmad and later General Ziaur Rahman, who suspended the 1972 Constitution and protected the killers with an Indemnity Ordinance. The 1975 killing of four Awami League leaders set a precedent that resurfaces today as the government bans the Awami League and sentences Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in 2024.

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Sheikh Hasina Returns

Former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina (78) said she will return to Bangladesh before year-end 2026 despite a death sentence.
She fled to India after a student-led uprising ousted her in August 2024.
A Dhaka court sentenced her to death in November 2024 for inciting killings and failing to stop atrocities.
She called the verdict illegal and urged Prime Minister Tarique Rahman's government to lift the Awami League ban and release prisoners.

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