Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who sought refuge in India due to a rebellion in her country, has broken her silence for the first time. In her initial statement, she demanded that those responsible for the murders and destructive actions that took place in July be punished. “I request the people to observe National Mourning Day on August 15 with respect. Pray for the salvation of all souls by offering floral tributes at Bangabandhu Bhaban,” Hasina said.
She further expressed her condolences for the lives lost due to violence, arson, and destruction in the name of protests since July. “I mourn for the students, teachers, women police officers, journalists, cultural workers, laborers, leaders, and workers of Awami League and its affiliated organizations, pedestrians, and the workers killed in various institutions due to extremist attacks,” she stated.
Hasina also condemned the destruction of the Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Museum, stating, “Under the leadership of the Father of the Nation, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, we gained independence, self-respect, and freedom as a sovereign nation. Those responsible for recent developments have insulted the blood of millions of martyrs,” she added.
Sheikh Hasina’s 15-year-long tenure as Bangladesh’s Prime Minister came to an end on August 5 due to the rebellion. Along with her, six others have been charged in Bangladesh.