Sheikh Hasina Vows Return to Bangladesh Despite Death Sentence

Former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina announced she will return to Bangladesh from exile in India by December 2026, despite a death sentence issued in absentia by the International Crimes Tribunal in November 2025. Hasina fled the country in August 2024 following a mass student-led uprising. She was convicted of crimes against humanity for ordering a crackdown on protesters that the United Nations reports killed nearly 1,400 people, though she denies responsibility and rejects the tribunal's legitimacy.

In an interview with the Associated Press, Hasina stated she does not seek the "blessing of a foreign power" or protection from the United States or India to ensure her safe return. She acknowledged the risks of arrest, torture, or death upon arrival, asserting that she would rather die on her own country's soil than remain in exile. India has previously declined repeated extradition requests from Bangladesh.

Hasina criticized the current government led by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, who took power in February following an 18-month interim administration led by Muhammad Yunus. She alleged that the Rahman government has systematically suppressed her banned Awami League party, claiming 20,000 party members have been killed since August 2024. While the Rahman government maintains that arrests are based on specific charges, Human Rights Watch has criticized the administration for assaults on civil and political rights.