Sheikh Hasina Returns as Bangladesh PM: Awami League Thanks India
After months of political uncertainty, Sheikh Hasina is set to return as the Prime Minister of Bangladesh. Her comeback follows a period of exile in India after a massive student-led movement forced her out of power in August 2024. Now, as she prepares to reclaim her position, her party, the Awami League, has publicly thanked India for its support.
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Her return raises several critical questions: Will her leadership bring stability, or will it reignite protests and political unrest? What role did India play in this power shift? And how will the opposition react to her comeback?
Let’s dive into the details.
The Fall of Sheikh Hasina: What Happened on August 5?
Sheikh Hasina, who led Bangladesh for 16 years, was removed from power on August 5, 2024, after weeks of intense nationwide protests. What started as a student-led movement against corruption, rising prices, and restrictive government policies quickly escalated into violent clashes between protesters and security forces.
The situation spiraled out of control, with over 600 people losing their lives in street battles. Facing growing resistance, Hasina had no choice but to flee to India, where she sought refuge.
In her absence, an interim government, led by Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus, was installed to restore order and promise reforms. However, Hasina’s party, the Awami League, refused to accept this government, calling it unconstitutional and a “foreign-backed takeover.”
Now, just months later, Hasina is making a dramatic return, determined to reclaim her power.
India’s Role: Why Is Awami League Thanking India?
As Hasina’s return becomes official, senior Awami League leaders have openly expressed gratitude to India.
Dr. Rabbi Alam, a top Awami League official, stated:
"India played a crucial role in ensuring Sheikh Hasina’s safety. Without their support, this day would not have been possible."
This statement has sparked debate among political analysts and the Bangladeshi public. While some see India’s involvement as a friendly gesture, others question whether India had a larger role in shaping Bangladesh’s political landscape.
Some key reasons why India may have supported Hasina’s return include:
- Regional Stability: India has long viewed Hasina as an ally and may prefer her leadership to avoid instability in Bangladesh.
- Economic Interests: Strong trade relations exist between India and Bangladesh under Hasina’s rule.
- Countering China’s Influence: India may want to reduce China’s growing influence in Bangladesh, which has increased under the interim government.
While India’s exact role remains unclear, one thing is certain—Sheikh Hasina’s return is not just a domestic issue but also a regional one.
What Happens Next?
With Hasina back in power, Bangladesh is entering a new phase of political uncertainty.
1. Will Hasina Reclaim Full Power?
Hasina’s return could mean the end of the interim government. If she successfully reinstates her leadership, her first goal will be to secure her authority and silence opposition voices.
However, this could lead to a fresh wave of protests from those who oppose her rule. Many citizens still blame her for past corruption and government failures.
2. A Possible Political Deal?
Some believe that instead of taking full control immediately, Hasina may negotiate a political settlement with the current government. A power-sharing deal could be a solution to avoid further instability.
3. Will Bangladesh Face More Protests?
While Hasina’s supporters are celebrating, her return is not welcomed by everyone. The same young protesters who led the August movement may rise again, demanding permanent change.
If fresh protests erupt, Bangladesh could face another period of unrest, leading to a potential military crackdown or even international intervention.
What Does This Mean for Bangladesh’s Future?
Sheikh Hasina’s return is a historic political moment for Bangladesh. Will she restore order, or will the country plunge into further chaos?
Possible Outcomes:
✔ A Stronger Hasina Government – If she regains control smoothly, she may tighten her grip on power for years to come.
✔ A Compromise Government – She could negotiate a power-sharing agreement with the opposition to stabilize the country.
✔ More Unrest and Political Turmoil – Protests could return, leading to another crisis or even military intervention.
Bangladesh is at a crossroads, and the coming weeks will determine whether Hasina’s return will bring stability or further division.
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