Sheikh Hasina Announces December Return to Bangladesh from Exile

Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina announced her intention to return to Bangladesh in December 2026 to surrender to authorities and face legal proceedings. Speaking via videolink and audio from New Delhi during an event hosted by the Foreign Correspondents’ Club of South Asia, Hasina stated her return is driven by duty rather than a desire for power. She acknowledged that she may be imprisoned or killed, dismissing her 2025 death sentence for crimes against humanity as a politically motivated process.

During the interaction, Hasina characterized the 2024 student protests that led to her ouster as a coordinated campaign for regime change rather than a spontaneous movement. She demanded the lifting of the ban on her Awami League party and the restoration of freedom of speech. Her son, Sajeeb Wazed Joy, criticized the current administration, describing Bangladesh as a failed state and warning that the release of militants has created security risks for India.

The government of Bangladesh reacted with outrage, with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs calling the event an affront to national sovereignty and the victims of the July Revolution. The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting urged local media to refrain from broadcasting Hasina's statements, though Chief Prosecutor Aminul Islam clarified that only hate speech is prohibited. Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed affirmed that Hasina would be arrested immediately upon her return.

The Government of India distanced itself from the press conference. The Ministry of External Affairs stated it had no involvement in the private event and does not endorse the views expressed, while continuing to examine Bangladesh's extradition requests.