Sheikh Hasina, Bangladesh's former prime minister widely known as the "Iron Lady" for her 15 years in power, has publicly declared her intention to return to Bangladesh in December 2026. This marks her first public appearance since fleeing to India two years ago amid mass protests and a military helicopter evacuation from her official residence.

Hasina, sentenced to death by Bangladesh's International Crimes Tribunal, addressed journalists via a shaky audio link at New Delhi's Foreign Correspondents' Club. Despite her legal challenges and the banning of her party, the Awami League, from politics, Hasina's statement is seen as a sign she refuses to end her political career.

Sreeradha Datta, an international affairs professor at Om Prakash Jindal Global University, commented that Hasina's declaration could "uplift the lagging spirit" of her loyal supporters. Datta also noted that the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) government likely fears Hasina's return could trigger a mass mobilisation of Awami League supporters.

"If the Indian government didn't want this to happen, it would not have happened," Professor Datta said, implying India's tacit approval of Hasina's public address and potential return.

Meanwhile, for families of the estimated 1,400 people killed during the 2024 protests that led to Hasina's exile, her continued absence represents denied justice.

Observers suggest the current Bangladesh government might reconsider its stance, with some believing it will portray itself as "a different Bangladesh; we're not vindictive like we used to be," signaling a more evolved political approach.

Sources