Sheikh Hasina, Bangladesh's former prime minister widely known as the "Iron Lady," has publicly declared her intention to return to her country in December 2026. This marks her first public appearance since fleeing to India two years ago amid mass protests and a death sentence handed down by Bangladesh's International Crimes Tribunal.

Hasina, 78, fled Bangladesh in 2024 after weeks of demonstrations culminated in thousands storming her official residence. Her political career, shaped by her family's powerful dynasty and 15 years in office, appears far from over despite her exile.

Speaking via a fragile audio link at New Delhi's Foreign Correspondents' Club, Hasina did not address the crimes she was sentenced for but instead asserted her ongoing role as a political contender.

Sreeradha Datta, an international affairs professor at Om Prakash Jindal Global University, noted that Hasina's statement would likely "uplift the lagging spirit" of her supporters, even though the Awami League party has been banned from politics. Datta also suggested that the current BNP government 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 support for Hasina's public re-emergence.

There is speculation that Bangladesh's government might reconsider its stance toward Hasina, with some suggesting it could adopt a less vindictive approach than in the past.

However, for families of the estimated 1,400 people killed during the 2024 protests, Hasina's exile in New Delhi represents denied justice.

The political landscape in Bangladesh remains uncertain as the country awaits Hasina's planned return, raising questions about the future balance of power.

Sources

ABC Australia News by Rachel Clayton, August 6, 2026