The political landscape in Bangladesh has become increasingly tense as the impending verdict against former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina looms large, raising the specter of further unrest ahead of the upcoming elections. Sajeeb Wazed, Hasina’s son, has voiced concerns about a potential death sentence for his mother while asserting the resilience and determination of her supporters to reclaim political power. This situation underscores the complex interplay between governance, civil rights, and political dissent in a nation grappling with its tumultuous history.
The son of former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has issued a grave warning regarding a possible death sentence for her, indicating that her exile in India has so far kept her safe. Sajeeb Wazed conveyed these sentiments in an interview with ZezapTV ahead of a critical court ruling expected imminently. He warned that supporters of the Awami League party, which has historically dominated the political landscape, may prevent the upcoming election from proceeding if a ban on the party remains enforced.
Wazed’s comments came in light of a forthcoming televised verdict concerning charges against Hasina related to the violent crackdown on protesters in 2024, which reportedly led to an estimated 1,400 fatalities, primarily caused by security forces using live ammunition. The erstwhile leader, who has been living in New Delhi since August 2024, contests the legitimacy of the accusations, asserting that the actions taken against her were politically orchestrated.
In discussing the upcoming electoral process, Wazed stated that Awami League supporters would take a stand against the current interim government led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus. He warned that without lifting the ban on the Awami League, protests would escalate and the likelihood of violence could increase substantially. Wazed emphasized the need for elections that are both inclusive and equitable, arguing that the current political climate aims to suppress his family and other political leaders from participating.
The response from the interim government has been firm, with officials deeming any calls for violence from exiled political figures as irresponsible. The government, which temporarily suspended the Awami League’s registration and political activities citing threats to national security, faces significant challenges ahead of the planned elections in February 2026.
In recent weeks, Dhaka has witnessed a surge in violence, with numerous bombings and arson attacks reported across the city. Security measures have been intensified, including the deployment of over 400 border guards, increased checkpoints, and a ban on public gatherings, as authorities attempt to maintain order amid rising tensions.
Experts note that Sheikh Hasina remains a polarizing figure within Bangladeshi politics, with her influence capable of inciting significant public reactions, as evidenced by recent events. Observers fear that Wazed’s threats to disrupt the electoral process signal an intentional leveraging of unrest to advance the Awami League’s political agenda. The situation raises broader concerns about the governance and human rights record under Yunus’s administration, particularly as allegations of extrajudicial killings cast a shadow over efforts to stabilize the nation.
As the February elections approach, the country stands at a crossroads, with the potential for both significant political change and increased violence looming on the horizon. The outcome will likely depend on the international community’s engagement and the will of the Bangladeshi populace to navigate this challenging political landscape.
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