Bangladesh’s political environment has renewed focus on the potential return of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Since leaving Bangladesh in August 2024, amidst weeks of violent student protests demanding her resignation, Hasina recently made her strongest statement yet regarding the timing of her return, which she states will also depend on the restoration of participatory democracy and the lifting of the ban on her political party, the Awami League, along with free and fair elections.
A Chaotic Year for Bangladesh
Sheikh Hasina fled from Bangladesh in August 2024 following weeks of violent protests led by students that demanded her resignation, which already resulted in several dozen deaths and widespread property destruction, leading to her being temporarily sheltered in India. The state has been led by an interim administration headed by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, who has promised to restore democratic order.
Regardless, Hasina’s being in exile has not quelled political turmoil, as evidenced by continued demonstrations in the country by both citizens and Awami League members calling for her return.
Conditions for Her Return
Hasina stated in a recent interview from somewhere in India, which she declined to report, that her return to Bangladesh was contingent on three conditions.
- Restoration of participatory democracy.
- The ban on the Awami League is lifted.
- Free, fair, and inclusive elections in 2026.
Hasina alleged that the Yunus-led interim government was “damaging Bangladesh’s relations with India” and “empowering extremist forces”. According to reports from NDTV, she has also said she is grateful to India for sheltering her during exile.
Legal and Political Obstacles
Currently, Hasina is facing accusations of crimes against humanity related to her government’s actions during the 2024 protests before the civil unrest erupted. The court is set to deliver a verdict regarding her trial on or around November 17, 2025. Whether or not it is safe for her to return. Meanwhile, according to reports from Reuters, the interim government in Bangladesh is gearing up for a national referendum and elections in early 2026.
Analysts also contend that it will only be possible for Hasina to return home if she can negotiate a political settlement with the interim government, either ever, on her own behalf or on the international community’s behalf.
What Happens Next?
The next few weeks are critical. If the court’s decision is favourable to Sheikh Hasina, the former Prime Minister could make a remarkable comeback before the 2026 elections. Conversely, if found guilty, her political career could be permanently over.
Bangladesh is at a crossroads — either towards reform or remaining in turbulent unrest or opting for democracy, or lingering in instability. At this point, we do not know if Sheikh Hasina will return, but we do know she will continue to influence Bangladesh’s political future.
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