Sheikh Hasina appeals for democratic restoration in Bangladesh amid crisis
Former Bangladesh Prime Minister and Awami League chief Sheikh Hasina has issued a strong appeal to the people of Bangladesh, urging them to reclaim democracy and resist what she described as a “fascist, corrupt and illegitimate” interim government.
Speaking in an audio message from India, where she has remained since being forced out of office amid violence and unrest, Hasina said Bangladesh was passing through its darkest phase since the Liberation War led by her father, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.
Describing the country as a “wounded and blood-soaked land”, Hasina alleged that democracy had been pushed into exile and fear had replaced constitutional governance.
‘Democracy in exile, nation gripped by fear’
Hasina accused the current regime of dismantling democratic institutions, suppressing press freedom, and violating human rights. She warned that minorities, women, and children were facing growing threats as law and order collapsed across the country.
According to Hasina, incidents of killings, arson, looting, and forced extortion have spread beyond Dhaka to rural areas, while educational institutions remain paralysed by unrest. She further alleged that foreign interests were exploiting the instability to gain control over Bangladesh’s land and natural resources.
Call to rise in spirit of Liberation War
Invoking the legacy of the 1971 Liberation War, Hasina urged citizens to rise up and defend the constitution. “Our homeland’s soul has been tarnished,” she said, calling for the restoration of democratic rule and national sovereignty.
She reaffirmed the Awami League’s role as a defender of pluralism, secularism, and democratic values, and appealed to democratic, progressive, and non-sectarian forces to unite.
“This is a national moment that demands unity, courage, and a clear plan to move forward,” Hasina said.
Five-point roadmap to restore democracy
Hasina outlined five key steps to bring peace and democracy back to Bangladesh:
- Removal of the current administration and restoration of democratic governance without fear
- An immediate end to street violence and the free functioning of civil services to revive the economy
- Protection of minorities, women, and vulnerable communities from targeted violence
- An end to intimidation of journalists and opposition leaders, and restoration of faith in the justice system
- Invitation to the United Nations for a full, impartial probe into the past year’s violence to enable truth and reconciliation
For all the latest updates, download PGurus App.
