New Delhi: Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is set to make her first major public appearance in India since being ousted from power in August 2024. The virtual address, scheduled for August 5, 2026, coincides with the second anniversary of her departure from Bangladesh following a massive student-led uprising that brought an end to her nearly 16-year rule.
First Major Public Appearance Since Exile
Hasina has largely stayed away from public events and formal media interactions since arriving in India after fleeing Dhaka on August 5, 2024. While she has issued statements and participated in some virtual interactions, this event is expected to be her most significant public address since her ouster.
When and Where Will She Speak?
The event is being organized by the Foreign Correspondents’ Club of South Asia (FCC South Asia) and will be held virtually from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM IST on August 5 at the Sir Mark Tully Auditorium on Mathura Road in New Delhi. The session will also be streamed live on the club’s social media platforms.
What Is Sheikh Hasina Expected to Say?
According to organizers, Hasina is expected to:
- Outline her political roadmap for Bangladesh.
- Share her version of the events that led to the fall of her government.
- Announce details of her proposed return to Bangladesh.
- Present her vision for the country’s future under democratic governance.
Plans to Return to Bangladesh
The 78-year-old former prime minister has repeatedly expressed her determination to return to Bangladesh by December 2026, despite saying she faces the possibility of arrest, imprisonment, or even death. She has maintained that the legal cases against her are politically motivated.
High-Profile Participants
The virtual event is expected to feature several prominent Bangladeshi political leaders and public figures, including:
- Sajeeb Wazed Joy, Hasina’s son and former ICT adviser.
- Former Education Minister Mohibul Hasan Chowdhury Nowfel.
- Former Bangladesh cricketer and ex-MP Shakib Al Hasan.
- Security analyst Aminul Hoque Polash.
- Human rights representatives and political analysts.
The discussion will be chaired by Dr. Waiel Awwad, President of FCC South Asia and the International Association of Press Clubs (IAPC).
Political and Legal Challenges
Hasina’s planned address comes amid continuing political tensions between India and Bangladesh. Bangladesh has sought her extradition to face legal proceedings, while the Indian government has stated that the request is under examination through the appropriate legal process. Reports also indicate that New Delhi has maintained that Hasina is not permitted to undertake political activities while staying in India.
Why the Speech Matters
The August 5 address is expected to draw significant attention across South Asia. It could offer fresh insight into Hasina’s political strategy, her plans to return to Bangladesh, and the future of the Awami League, as Bangladesh continues to navigate a transformed political landscape following the 2024 uprising.
