Hasina demands justice, Mourns violence


New Delhi, Aug 14; In her first public statement since being ousted from her position as Prime Minister of Bangladesh, Sheikh Hasina has called for accountability and justice for those involved in the violence and vandalism that marked the end of her tenure. The statement, issued through her son Sajeeb Wazed, reflects Hasina’s deep concern for the recent turmoil in Bangladesh.

Hasina’s statement highlighted her appeal for a dignified observance of National Mourning Day on August 15. She urged citizens to offer floral tributes and prayers at Bangabandhu Bhaban, paying respect to the memory of the nation’s founding leader, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.“Since last July, many fresh lives have been lost due to vandalism, arson, and violence in the name of agitation,” Hasina remarked. She expressed condolences for the victims, which included students, teachers, police officers, journalists, cultural workers, and ordinary citizens. Her statement condemned the recent destruction of the museum dedicated to Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, denouncing it as an insult to the legacy of the Father of the Nation.

Hasina’s tenure, which lasted 15 years, came to an abrupt end on August 5 amid escalating violent protests. Following her resignation, she fled to India for safety. An interim government, led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, has taken charge of Bangladesh in her absence.

In a related legal development, a murder investigation has been launched into Hasina and six senior officials from her administration. The investigation, initiated by a private citizen’s lawyer Mamun Mia, concerns the police killing of a man during the civil unrest last month.

As the political landscape of Bangladesh continues to shift, Hasina’s call for justice and national mourning underscores her enduring commitment to her father’s legacy and her demand for accountability in the wake of her dramatic departure from power.