Deposed Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has spoken out for the first time since fleeing the country, expressing her deep distress over the recent coup and its implications. In a statement issued through her son, Sajeeb Wazed, Hasina described the overthrow of the Awami League government as a “grave insult” to her father, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the founding President of Bangladesh, and to the many martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the nation’s independence.
“The Father of the Nation, under whose leadership we have achieved our self-esteem and identity as an independent country, has been grossly insulted,” Hasina said, condemning the forces behind her ouster. She emphasized that the coup has dishonored the blood of millions of martyrs and called for justice from her fellow countrymen.
Sheikh Hasina also urged the people of Bangladesh to observe National Mourning Day on August 15, commemorating the assassination anniversary of her father. “I appeal to you to observe the day with dignity and solemnity, offering prayers and floral tributes at Bangabandhu Bhavan,” she stated.
Expressing her concern over the ongoing violence in the country, Hasina offered her condolences to the families of those who have lost their lives, including students, teachers, journalists, and innocent bystanders. She called for a thorough investigation into the killings and vandalism and demanded that the perpetrators be brought to justice.
Sheikh Hasina’s 15-year tenure as Prime Minister ended abruptly on August 5, following her resignation and departure from Bangladesh amidst escalating protests against her government.