The political turmoil in Bangladesh has intensified following the recent speech by former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who was ousted from power by a student-led uprising. On February 5, Hasina, who is currently in exile in India, delivered a speech via social media, in which she accused the interim government of unconstitutional rule. Her remarks have been seen as an attempt to reignite protests among student activists who played a crucial role in her removal.
During her speech, Hasina urged her supporters to “resist” the interim government, a call that many interpret as a bid to destabilize the already fragile political landscape. In response, protesters targeted the historic Dhanmondi residence of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, Bangladesh’s founding leader and Hasina’s father, in an apparent message against her authoritarian rule. Demonstrators reportedly set fire to parts of the building and vandalized its walls, actions that have further fueled political tensions.
Despite the provocative nature of Hasina’s statements, social media clips circulating online have omitted footage of her speech, instead highlighting scenes of the protest at Mujib’s residence. This has led to speculation that Hasina and her loyalists deliberately sought to provoke student activists. Meanwhile, the Awami League has framed these events as evidence of growing unrest under the interim administration.
Interim government leader Dr. Muhammad Yunus has expressed regret over the escalating student protests. However, he acknowledged that significant damage has already been done. Many analysts believe that Hasina’s actions signal her intent to watch Bangladesh descend into chaos as retaliation for what she sees as an unjust removal from office.
The political climate remains volatile, with the opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) widely expected to win the next elections. Reports suggest that the Awami League, seeking to maintain influence, may engage in negotiations with its longtime rival, BNP, to secure a pathway for its return to power. Additionally, there are growing calls within political circles to ban the Awami League altogether, citing numerous allegations of human rights violations and corruption against Hasina and her party members.
Meanwhile, Dr. Yunus and his student-led administration continue to push for key reforms. With a strong electoral mandate, they aim to implement long-term changes despite the challenges posed by political opposition. The current unrest serves as a reminder to all democratic forces in Bangladesh that national unity is essential in countering both internal and external threats.
Growing Tensions Between Bangladesh and India
Hasina’s February 5 speech has also strained Bangladesh-India relations, with Dhaka expressing concerns over India’s role in sheltering the former prime minister. As tensions rise, reports indicate that Bangladeshi officials have formally protested New Delhi’s stance. At the same time, diplomatic efforts are underway to prevent Bangladesh from becoming isolated on the global stage. Foreign ministers from both nations are expected to meet on February 16–17 in Muscat, Oman, to discuss the ongoing crisis.
India Seeks U.S. Support on Bangladesh Policy
Amid the deepening crisis, India is expected to seek Washington’s backing for its policy on Bangladesh. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his upcoming visit to the United States, is likely to emphasize the need for U.S. support in managing Bangladesh’s evolving political landscape. Analysts believe this could shape future diplomatic relations between the three countries.
As Bangladesh grapples with political instability, different factions are pushing for varied election timelines. While the Awami League and BNP call for immediate elections, student-led groups and emerging political movements advocate for reforms before any polls take place. Nobel laureate Dr. Yunus has consistently argued for elections within 12 to 18 months to ensure critical reforms are implemented first.
Despite the Awami League’s claims of victimhood, Hasina’s February 5 speech appears to have further alienated opposition forces. As the political situation evolves, her party faces an increasing likelihood of being excluded from future elections, marking a significant shift in Bangladesh’s political landscape.