Exiled since 2024, Sheikh Hasina has for the first time announced a definite timeline for her return to Bangladesh from India. In an interview with Reuters, the ex-premier said she would return around December to face the courts, setting the scene for a dramatic new chapter in the country’s political turmoil.
What Hasina said about returning
Hasina said she and senior colleagues from her Awami League party planned to return voluntarily and face the court, despite the risks. “If they want to arrest me, or kill me, I’d rather die on my own soil,” she said. She said her party’s workers are also facing heavy repression, which has influenced her decision to return.
Hasina’s Death Sentence: Bangladesh’s war crimes tribunal sentenced Hasina to death in absentia in November for her role in a deadly crackdown on the student-led uprising that eventually forced her out of power. That verdict was preceded a week earlier by another 21-year sentence for corruption in a separate case filed by Bangladesh’s Anti-Corruption Commission, adding to the legal pressure on her. From exile, she has always denied the charges.
Others To Come Back With Her: Hasina is not going to come back alone. She is also expected to be accompanied by former home minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal, who also has a death sentence of his own. She has also urged other exiled party members to join her, saying they plan to surrender together in court.
Legal and Diplomatic Barriers
Bangladeshi authorities have repeatedly asked India to extradite Hasina, but the Indian foreign ministry has only said it is considering the request. Hasina does not currently hold a valid Bangladeshi passport and would need a special travel document from a Bangladeshi diplomatic mission to travel through official channels, which the current administration has not clearly indicated it would grant, further complicating a voluntary return.
Could the Death Sentence Be Reconsidered?
Legal experts say a formal surrender by Hasina could prompt an appellate review in Bangladesh’s Supreme Court, and if an appeal is accepted, execution of the sentence could be stayed temporarily pending the hearing. This route, however, is highly dependent on cooperation from Bangladeshi authorities, and that is in question.
Implications for Bangladesh’s Political Scenario
Hasina’s possible return could disrupt the efforts to stabilise Bangladeshi politics after the 2024 revolt against her rule, but it could also ease the strains with India, which have been testy since New Delhi gave her refuge. If she does return, given the current administration’s lack of mercy to her, it is likely to inflame the already volatile political situation leading up to December.
Frequently Asked Questions
When Does Sheikh Hasina Plan To Return?
She has said she plans to return to Bangladesh around December, though she has not given other governments advance notice of the exact date.
Why Was Sheikh Hasina Sentenced To Death?
She was sentenced in absentia by Bangladesh’s war crimes tribunal for ordering a deadly crackdown on a student-led uprising in 2024.
Is Hasina Returning Alone?
No, she has said several senior Awami League leaders, including a former home minister facing his own death sentence, plan to return with her.
Can She Appeal The Death Sentence?
Legal experts say a formal surrender could open the path to a Supreme Court appeal, which may temporarily suspend the sentence, though this depends on cooperation from Bangladeshi authorities.
Does Hasina Currently Have A Valid Passport?
No, she does not currently hold a valid Bangladeshi passport and would need a special travel document to return through official channels.
