Sheikh Hasina
NEW DELHI: Sheikh Hasina, the long-time leader of Bangladesh, has not officially resigned as prime minister, despite fleeing to India earlier this week amid escalating anti-government protests, her son and adviser Sajeeb Wazed told Reuters on Saturday.
Hasina has been taking refuge in New Delhi since Monday, following an uprising that resulted in approximately 300 deaths, predominantly students.
This turmoil has effectively ended her 15-year unbroken rule over the country, which has a population of around 170 million people.
In a statement from Washington, Sajeeb Wazed clarified that his mother never formally resigned from her position.
According to him, Hasina had intended to make a resignation announcement and submit her formal resignation but was unable to do so due to the sudden and intense nature of the protests.
The situation deteriorated rapidly, with protesters marching on the prime minister’s official residence before Hasina could complete her planned statement. Consequently, she was forced to flee without even having time to pack.
Wazed noted that while the president had dissolved parliament after consultations with military leaders and opposition politicians, the formation of a caretaker government without Hasina’s formal resignation could potentially be challenged in court.
Despite the current political upheaval, Wazed remains confident that the Awami League, Hasina’s party, will participate in the upcoming elections, which he stated must occur within the next three months.
He expressed his belief that the Awami League would win the election, though he also acknowledged the possibility of the party becoming the opposition if necessary.
Wazed expressed optimism about working with the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and its leader Khaleda Zia, who had previously been a rival of Hasina.
He was heartened by Zia’s recent statement advocating for reconciliation and a focus on unity rather than vengeance.
Wazed indicated a willingness to collaborate with the BNP to ensure democratic elections and restore peaceful governance in Bangladesh.
Addressing speculation about his own potential political future, Wazed mentioned that if the Awami League desired him as a prime ministerial candidate, he would seriously consider it.
He also assured that his mother was prepared to face any legal challenges upon her return, dismissing any fear of arrest.
He maintained that Hasina had not ordered any violence against protesters and emphasized that the government had taken steps to address the excessive use of force by some police officers.
Wazed defended the actions of his family and their government, asserting that any illegal actions taken by individuals within the government should not be attributed to Hasina personally.
He highlighted the government’s efforts to halt violence and hold responsible parties accountable.
Despite the political crisis, he remains resolute about his and his party’s role in the future of Bangladesh, asserting that they will continue to play a crucial part in the country’s stability.
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