Bangladesh: Muhammad Yunus responds to Sheikh Hasina's return vow
Bangladesh: Muhammad Yunus responds to Sheikh Hasina's return vow
Digital Desk: Bangladesh's former Prime minister, Sheikh Hasina, who is presently in exile in India, referred to the South Asian nation's acting government chief, Muhammad Yunus, as a "mobster" and accused him of unleashing "terrorists" and encouraging "lawlessness" in the country.
In response, Dhaka reaffirmed its resolve to get her back from India, emphasizing that achieving Ms Hasina's extradition is a key priority.
Ms Hasina, who fled to India after her government was overthrown in a student-led rebellion on August 5, 2024, held a one-on-one Zoom meeting with the widows of four police officers murdered in last July's student uprising.
During the interaction, the expelled leader expressed her condolences for their awful loss and pledged to make things right when she returned.
Bangladeshi Prime Minister Hasina Hasina has accused Mr. Yunus of conspiring to overthrow her and accuses the interim government of unleashing terrorists to harm people. She claims that the government is destroying Bangladesh and that she escaped an assassination attempt. Hasina claims to have been saved by God and plans to return and ensure justice for all citizens.
Ms Hasina accused Mr Yunus of dismissing all probe committees, alleging that the interim governance had "unleashed terrorists" to murder people.
During July-August, Ms Hasina attempted to quell student-led protests, which resulted in the deaths of four police officers. The protests against a contentious quota system quickly escalated into a clamor for her removal.
In a tearful speech, Ms. Hasina stated that roughly 450 police stations were also set on fire and that the killings were part of a bigger plot coordinated by Mr. Yunus, who has since admitted that there was a "design and conspiracy" to oust Ms. Hasina.
Bangladesh's interim administration has emphasized the importance of securing the former Prime Minister's extradition from India, following a Zoom interaction with Ms Hasina.
"The government will continue efforts to extradite Hasina for her trial in person." Said Mr Yunus' press secretary, Shafiqul Alam on Tuesday.
"The future of Ms Hasina's Awami League in Bangladesh is uncertain, but the government emphasizes the need for justice for those involved in crimes," he further added.
The government also cited a UN report accusing Ms Hasina's administration of crimes against humanity, and pressure has mounted on India to return Hasina to Bangladesh.
India has yet to respond to the Bangladesh situation, but the Bangladesh Foreign Office has submitted a diplomatic note asking Ms Hasina's repatriation. New Delhi has acknowledged its receipt but has yet to give a further response.
