From her exile in India, Bangladesh’s former leader Sheikh Hasina has strongly criticized the country’s upcoming election. Her party has been barred from taking part in the vote, and her remarks could increase tensions as the country prepares for the important election next month.
Hasina was removed from power after a student uprising in 2024, which resulted in hundreds of deaths. She was later sentenced to death for her role in the crackdown during that uprising, which also ended her 15-year rule in Bangladesh.
In an email to The Associated Press last week, Hasina warned that if the elections are not inclusive, free, and fair, Bangladesh could face long-term political instability. She expressed concern that excluding her party from the polls could harm the country’s democracy and make it harder for the nation to move forward peacefully.
Her statements highlight growing fears among citizens and international observers that the upcoming election may be contentious and could deepen divisions within Bangladesh.