Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has made a powerful statement from India, declaring, “Allah kept me alive for a reason,” as she vowed to seek justice for the victims of political violence in Bangladesh. Speaking during a virtual interaction with the families of slain Awami League members, Hasina criticized Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, the interim government’s chief advisor, accusing him of exploiting the poor and harboring political ambitions.
Hasina, who is currently in India after being ousted from power, described the current state of Bangladesh as a “terrorist country,” citing widespread violence against Awami League supporters and a clampdown on media freedom. “Our leaders, workers, police, lawyers, journalists, artists—everyone is being targeted. Rapes, murders, dacoities—nothing can be reported. And if it is, the media outlet is attacked,” she claimed.
Reflecting on the assassination of her family, including her father Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, Bangladesh’s founding leader, Hasina said, “I lost my father, mother, and brothers in a day. Then they didn’t let us return. I know what it feels like to lose everything. Maybe Allah is protecting me for a purpose. Those who committed these crimes will be punished. That is my promise.”
Her remarks come amid efforts by Bangladesh’s interim government to secure her extradition from India. During a recent meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, interim leader Md Yunus reportedly urged India to restrain Hasina from making “inflammatory” public statements, accusing her of destabilizing the situation in Bangladesh.
As political tensions escalate, Hasina’s statements underscore her determination to fight for justice and her unwavering commitment to the Awami League. Her supporters, both in Bangladesh and abroad, continue to rally behind her as she navigates this challenging chapter in her political career.
