Former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina Alleges US Involvement in Her Ouster

Former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina Alleges US Involvement in Her Ouster. In a recent and controversial statement, former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who is currently residing in India, has accused the United States of playing a significant role in her removal from power. Her allegations have brought to light the complexities of Bangladesh’s political landscape and the potential influence of foreign powers on its sovereignty.

Sheikh Hasina claimed that she could have retained her position as Prime Minister had she been willing to compromise Bangladesh’s sovereignty. According to Hasina, the United States sought control over strategic locations such as Saint Martin Island and wanted to exert influence over the Bay of Bengal.

“I could have remained in power if I had surrendered the sovereignty of Saint Martin Island and allowed America to hold sway over the Bay of Bengal,” Hasina stated, emphasizing her refusal to compromise on these critical national interests.

Saint Martin Island, a small but strategically important 3-square-kilometer landmass in the Bay of Bengal, has been a point of contention in international relations.

The island location near the southern tip of Bangladesh makes it a significant asset in terms of maritime influence and control. Hasina’s allegations suggest that the US had a vested interest in this region, potentially for its geopolitical importance.

Hasina expressed deep sorrow over the violence and unrest that followed her resignation on August 5. The resignation came amid escalating student protests against the controversial quota system for government jobs, which had sparked widespread discontent.

The situation deteriorated rapidly, leading to killings, harassment, and vandalism across the country. Hasina decided to step down to prevent further bloodshed, stating, “I resigned so that I did not have to see the procession of dead bodies. They wanted to come to power over the dead bodies of students, but I did not allow it.”

Fearing for her safety amid the chaos, Hasina left Dhaka on a military aircraft and is currently residing in an undisclosed location in India. Despite being away from Bangladesh, she remains deeply connected to the events unfolding in her homeland.

“My heart cries upon receiving news that many leaders have been killed, workers are being harassed, and their homes are subjected to vandalism and arson,” she lamented, while also expressing hope for her eventual return. “With the grace of almighty Allah, I will return soon.”

In her statement, Hasina urged the people of Bangladesh to resist manipulation by radical elements. She expressed her commitment to the nation’s future, stating, “Awami League has stood up again and again. I shall forever pray for the future of Bangladesh, the nation which my great father strived for.”

Hasina also addressed the ongoing student protests, clarifying that her previous comments had been distorted to incite unrest. “I have never called you Razakars. My words were distorted to incite you. Conspirators have taken advantage of your innocence and used you to destabilize the nation,” she explained, urging students to seek the full context of her statements.

During a parliamentary session, Hasina previously accused the US of attempting to orchestrate a regime change in Bangladesh. Her son, Sajeeb Wazed Joy, echoed these concerns, suggesting that the recent protests were likely instigated by a foreign intelligence agency, although he stopped short of directly naming the US.

The United States has consistently criticized Bangladesh’s human rights record and electoral processes, leading to tensions between the two countries. Hasina’s allegations have further strained this relationship, raising questions about the role of foreign powers in Bangladesh’s internal affairs.

Sheikh Hasina’s accusations against the United States have sparked significant controversy and highlighted the ongoing political turmoil in Bangladesh. Her refusal to compromise on national sovereignty, despite the potential consequences, underscores her deep commitment to the country’s independence.

As the situation continues to evolve, the people of Bangladesh and the international community will be watching closely to see how these allegations unfold and what impact they may have on the nation’s future.