A year after ouster, Sheikh Hasina’s sharp attack at ‘unelected’ regime of Yunus: ‘Dark moment in history’

In an open letter to the people of Bangladesh, Hasina condemned the regime that came to power after her ouster

A year after she resigned and fled to India, former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina dubbed the movement that toppled her government as a dark moment in the country’s history.

Hasina, 77, resigned last year and fled to India on August 5 following a massive protest by students against a controversial quota system in government jobs. After her ouster, Muhammad Yunus took oath as the chief adviser of the interim government on August 8.

In an open letter to the people of Bangladesh, Hasina condemned the regime that came to power after her ouster.

“One year ago today, our nation witnessed the violent interruption of our hard-fought democracy, as an unelected regime seized power through unconstitutional means. It was a dark moment in our history, an affront to the will of the people, and a betrayal of the trust between citizens and the state,” the former Prime Minister wrote.

“While they may have taken power, they will never take away our spirit, our resolve, or our destiny. I can assure you of that,” she added.

While acknowledging the difficulties faced by the people of the country in the last year, she praised the courage, resilience and unity showcased by the people amid the adversity.

“In the face of injustice and repression, I have witnessed extraordinary courage from you, the people of Bangladesh. You have refused to be silenced. You have stood up for democracy, for freedom, and for the future we all deserve. I am constantly inspired by your courage and your love for our country,” the letter read.

“Though this past year has tested us, it has also revealed the unbreakable bond between our people and the values of democracy. We have endured hardship, but in that hardship, we have found unity and purpose,” it stated.

Hasina urged Bangladeshis to stand for justice, economic opportunity, education, peace, and for a nation where no one lives in fear.

“Together, we will rebuild what has been broken. Together, we will reclaim the institutions that were taken from us. And together, we will write a new chapter, one defined not by oppression, but by hope, progress, and freedom,” Hasina said.

“Let this anniversary not be a day of retrospection, but a rallying cry for a brighter tomorrow. Bangladesh has overcome adversity before, and we will rise again, stronger, more united, and more determined to build a democracy that truly serves its people,” she added.