Sheikh Hasina Clues at US Part in Her Ouster from Bangladesh

Sheikh Hasina, the former Prime Minister of Bangladesh, has revealed details of an undelivered speech, shedding light on her resignation and the circumstances surrounding it. The 76-year-old leader claimed that she could have retained power if she had compromised Bangladesh’s sovereignty by surrendering Saint Martin Island and allowing the United States to exert influence over the Bay of Bengal. This speech, which Hasina was unable to deliver due to violent protests that forced her to flee, underscores the challenges she faced in her final days as Prime Minister.

Sheikh Hasina’s Undelivered Speech–

In her undelivered speech, Sheikh Hasina expressed deep sorrow for the violence that led to her resignation. She emphasized that she stepped down to prevent further bloodshed, stating, “I resigned so that I did not have to see the parade of dead bodies. They wanted to come to power over the dead bodies of students, but I did not allow it. I resigned from the premiership.”

Hasina also hinted at external pressure, particularly from the United States. She claimed that she could have remained in power if she had surrendered the sovereignty of Saint Martin Island, a small landmass in the Bay of Bengal, and allowed the U.S. to establish a significant presence in the region. “I could have remained in power if I had surrendered the sovereignty of Saint Martin Island and allowed America to hold influence over the Bay of Bengal,” her speech reveals.

The former Prime Minister called on the people of Bangladesh to resist control by radical forces and expressed her determination to return to her country soon. “My heart cries upon receiving news that many leaders have been killed, workers are being harassed, and their homes are subjected to vandalism and arson. With the grace of Almighty Allah, I will return soon,” she vowed.

Political Unrest in Bangladesh

Hasina’s resignation on August 5 came amid escalating protests in Bangladesh, primarily led by students demanding the removal of the controversial quota system for government jobs. The protest, which began as a movement against job quotas, quickly grew into a broader demand for reforms in the Bangladeshi government. More than 400 people lost their lives during the unrest since mid-July, prompting widespread concern for Hasina’s safety. The situation deteriorated to the point where protesters reached her home, forcing her to flee the country. She left Dhaka on a military aircraft and is currently seeking asylum in India, where she remains at an undisclosed location under protection.

In her speech, Hasina acknowledged the pain of seeing her party, the Awami League, targeted during the unrest. However, she reiterated her commitment to returning to Bangladesh and continuing her work for the country’s future. “I became your leader because you elected me; you were my strength,” she said, emphasizing her connection with the Bangladeshi people.

Following Hasina’s departure, Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus took over as the head of the interim government. He has assured the public that the new administration will work to restore peace and protect minorities, including Hindus, in the country. Meanwhile, Bangladesh’s judiciary has also faced significant pressure, with Chief Justice Obaidul Hassan and five other top judges being forced to resign amid the ongoing protests.

Bangladesh is currently facing a period of intense political turmoil following Sheikh Hasina’s resignation. Her undelivered speech offers a glimpse into the challenges she faced as Prime Minister, including external pressures and the threat of violence. As the country navigates this difficult period, the future of its government and the stability of its political landscape remain uncertain. However, Hasina’s commitment to returning and her call for unity suggest that her influence in Bangladeshi politics is far from over.

Team Profile

SanchitaNews Writer

Sanchita is currently pursuing her master's in journalism and mass communication. She has already completed a PG diploma in journalism and mass communication from Patna Women's College and her graduation from Berhampur University. With a strong desire to become a journalist, she is focused on learning and enhancing her skills to excel in her chosen career.

Latest entries

• English10 September 2024AAP-Congress Union Talks for Haryana Decisions Fall Flat Over Seat Sharing
• English9 September 2024Jawhar Sircar Leaves from Rajya Sabha in the Midst of Debasement and Misusing Allegations
• Defence8 September 2024Pakistan Army Admits Role in Kargil War for the First Time
• English7 September 2024AAP-Congress Organization Together Faces Seat-Sharing Debate in Haryana Elections