Bangladesh&rsquo;s ousted former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, now living in New Delhi, has opened up for the first time since her dramatic exit from Dhaka last year. The 78-year-old leader spoke about Bangladesh&rsquo;s upcoming national elections, her Awami League party, and her hope to return home once constitutional order is restored.
Hasina fled Bangladesh in August 2024 after violent student-led protests over the civil service quota system led to her removal from power. The interim government, led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, has since ruled the country and promised national elections in February 2027.
While she has occasionally shared statements online, this is Hasina&rsquo;s first media interaction since her ouster after 15 consecutive years in power. Currently residing in New Delhi, she said she lives freely but remains cautious given her family&rsquo;s violent past; her father and three brothers were killed in a 1975 coup.
Hasina maintained that Bangladesh&rsquo;s future lies in restoring democracy and political stability, not in dynastic rule. Her son, Sajeeb Wazed, based in Washington, earlier said he might consider leading the Awami League if asked.
She warned that if the Awami League is barred from contesting the next elections, millions of its supporters could boycott the polls, potentially undermining their legitimacy.
Hasina faces charges of crimes against humanity related to the deadly 2024 student protests, where over 1,400 people were reportedly killed. She dismissed the accusations as politically motivated and said she was denied a fair trial.
A verdict on her case is expected on November 13, as Bangladesh watches closely whether its former leader can return to a deeply divided nation.

Sheikh Hasina breaks silence on elections, Awami League, and return plans

Sheikh Hasina Speaks From Exile in New Delhi

Sheikh Hasina breaks silence on elections, Awami League, and return plans

October 30, 2025 | 24:02 IST