Post by : Rameen Ariff

Former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has spoken out for the first time since leaving Dhaka, describing her dramatic ouster as an “orchestrated coup disguised as reform.” In a detailed and candid conversation, Hasina accused radical factions of undermining democracy and warned that Bangladesh now faces an increasing extremist threat under the current interim regime led by Muhammad Yunus.

Refuting speculation of Western involvement, Hasina said her removal was the result of a coordinated domestic conspiracy that took advantage of public unrest. She explained that while early protests over civil service job quotas appeared peaceful, they were later hijacked by “a violent mob of radical agitators.”

“By early August, the peaceful protests had turned into a state of lawlessness. When Yunus granted immunity to the perpetrators and dissolved our inquiry, it became clear this was premeditated,” Hasina said.

Hasina claimed that leaving Bangladesh was a matter of “survival,” citing threats to her safety and that of her aides.

Military’s Role and External Pressure

When asked about the role of the Bangladesh Army, Hasina acknowledged that the military was under immense pressure to prevent chaos. However, she declined to directly accuse the army chief of acting under foreign influence.

“The military faced an impossible situation — protecting constitutional rule while avoiding bloodshed. Whether external pressure played a role, I cannot say,” she stated.

Hasina also rejected suggestions that the United States orchestrated her removal, insisting that “no foreign government was actively involved.” Instead, she accused Yunus of misleading Western supporters who “mistook his economics for democracy.”

“Yunus is not a democratic symbol — he is an unelected head of state protecting extremists and silencing minorities,” Hasina said, adding that “this illusion is now fading.”

On China and Regional Stability

Hasina emphasized that China and Bangladesh have long shared stable relations, warning that the current interim administration’s “volatile trade and foreign policies” could destabilize the region.

She urged neighboring nations to encourage a return to constitutional governance through free and fair elections, asserting that “Bangladesh must remain a reliable partner to both India and China.”

India’s Role and Continued Support

Expressing gratitude towards India, Hasina thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government and the Indian people for their “patience and understanding” during her stay in exile.

“India has always stood by Bangladesh in difficult times. I am grateful for their faith and for their commitment to democratic values,” she said.

Hasina added that India’s stance reflects a “desire for regional peace and stability” rather than interference in Bangladesh’s domestic affairs.

Future of the Awami League

Despite her exile, the veteran leader affirmed that the Awami League remains strong within Bangladesh, insisting it is “a voice that must be heard for democracy to survive.”

“Awami League is not about me — it’s about the people of Bangladesh. We will return through fair, inclusive elections,” she said.

Hasina warned that unless democracy is restored soon, Bangladesh risks descending into a “hybrid, Islamist-military regime” similar to Pakistan’s troubled political model.

She concluded with a message to her supporters and the international community:

“Our fight is for the soul of Bangladesh — for democracy, for freedom, and for the right of every citizen to choose their own government.”

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