Sajeeb Wazed, son and adviser to ousted Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, stated on Sunday that Awami League supporters would obstruct February’s national election if the party’s ban is not removed, cautioning that demonstrations could turn violent.
His statement comes one day before a special tribunal delivers its verdict against the deposed leader for alleged crimes against humanity. The verdict will be broadcast in its entirety and is anticipated to convict Hasina, who faces charges related to a brutal suppression of student-led demonstrations in 2024. She maintains her innocence and claims the prosecution is politically driven.
Hasina’s Exile and Security in India
Hasina has resided in exile in Delhi since escaping Bangladesh in August 2024. Wazed reported that India is providing comprehensive security and treating her “like a head of state”.
Wazed anticipates Hasina’s conviction in the proceedings. “They’re televising it. They’re going to convict her, and they’ll probably sentence her to death,” said Wazed, who resides in Washington, DC.
“What can they do to my mother? My mother is safe in India. India is giving her full security,” he added.
A spokesperson for the interim government headed by Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus rejected claims that the trial is politically motivated, asserting that the court “functioned transparently, allowing observers and publishing regular documentation”.
In October, Hasina informed Reuters that she could travel freely in Delhi. Hasina described the verdict as “a politically motivated charade” and declared it “a foregone conclusion”.
No Appeal Without Democratic Government
Wazed stated they would not file an appeal unless a democratically elected administration assumed office with Awami League participation In May, the party’s registration was suspended after the interim government prohibited its political activities, citing national security concerns.
“We will not allow elections without the Awami League to go ahead,” he declared. He stressed that the party will take all necessary measures.
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Wazed predicted that without international community intervention, Bangladesh will likely experience violence before these elections. “There’s going to be confrontations,” he warned.
The government spokesperson stated there are no plans to remove the ban. “The interim government regards any incitement to violence especially by exiled political figures as deeply irresponsible and reprehensible,” the spokesperson said.
“At present, there is no dialogue space for Awami League as it continues to refuse to express any remorse for crimes against humanity committed under its rule,” the spokesperson added.
Rising Tensions and Security Measures
Dhaka has been tense ahead of the verdict, with several crude bombs detonating on Sunday. Additionally, 32 explosions were recorded on November 12, accompanied by buses being set ablaze.
Security has been intensified, with authorities deploying over 400 Border Guards, strengthening checkpoints, and limiting public gatherings. The government is focusing on de-escalation and protecting life and property, the spokesperson stated.
“You’re seeing in the last few days shutdowns across the country, massive protests throughout the country, and they’re only going to get bigger,” Wazed said.
(With inputs from Reuters)
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