Hasina opens up on fears, threats and Bangladesh return
I returned to Bangladesh in 1981, despite military rule. I returned again in 2007, knowing that the military-backed government might arrest me. That is why, on July 18, 2024, I established a Judicial Enquiry Commission headed by a High Court judge.
On August 1, I expanded it to a three-member commission so that every incident could be examined properly.
He stopped that investigation,” the former PM said. “Look, I understand the risks very well. I may be arrested the moment I arrive. They may send me to prison. They may even try to kill me. I have considered all these possibilities. But, you know, I stopped worrying about my personal safety a long time ago. I have faced imprisonment and repeated attempts on my life. Fear has never stopped me from doing what I believe is right,” the exiled leader stated. “Let me make one thing very clear. I never ordered the killing of innocent people. I reject that accusation completely. Every death was tragic. As Prime Minister, I had a responsibility to protect the lives of our citizens, and I wanted to know exactly what had happened. But what happened after Muhammad Yunus assumed power?
“His administration subsequently granted legal protection to participants in the uprising for acts classified as political resistance. At the same time, murder cases were brought against me and thousands of Awami League leaders, activists and workers. If they really wanted the truth, why did they stop the judicial investigation that I had already established? Why should there be different standards of justice depending on someone’s political identity?” she questioned.