Key facts
- Ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina plans to return to Bangladesh in December, despite facing a death sentence.
- Hasina stated she would return to her people regardless of the consequences, including potential arrest or death.
- Shakib Al Hasan, an ally of Hasina, is willing to return to Bangladesh and face trial if his security is guaranteed.
- Shakib Al Hasan seeks to play a farewell cricket series and potentially participate in the 2027 World Cup.
- Hasina's government was overthrown in August 2024 following a student-led uprising.
- Shakib Al Hasan faces charges including alleged protester killing and anti-corruption violations, with his bank accounts frozen.
Ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has declared her intention to return to Bangladesh in December, despite facing a death sentence and potential arrest. Hasina, who has been living in exile in India since her government was toppled by a student-led uprising in August 2024, stated her resolve to return to her people, even if it means facing imprisonment or death.
Shakib Al Hasan, a prominent Bangladeshi cricketer and an ally of Hasina, has also expressed his willingness to return to Bangladesh. He is prepared to face trial, including potential murder charges, provided the current government guarantees his safety. Shakib, who has been in exile in the United States for two years, hopes to play a farewell cricket series and potentially represent Bangladesh in the 2027 World Cup. He claims he has committed no wrongdoing and is seeking government clearance for his return.
Hasina's supporters claim the death toll during the protests that led to her government's downfall was around 800, while UN estimates suggest up to 1,400 people may have died. Hasina has rejected the death sentence verdict as politically motivated. Her son, Sajeeb Wazed Joy, stated that she is being treated with respect in India, though India has officially distanced itself from her news conference. The Bangladesh government has indicated Hasina would likely be arrested upon her return. Shakib Al Hasan faces two active legal cases and has had his bank accounts frozen for 18 months.