Bangladesh's fugitive former prime minister, Sheikh Hasina, has vowed to return to her country this year. The 78-year-old made the statement in a rare interview with Indian broadcaster NDTV.
Hasina fled to India in August 2024 after a student-led uprising ended her 15-year rule. A Dhaka court later found her guilty in absentia of crimes against humanity, sentencing her to death.
In the interview, Hasina called the verdict politically motivated and stated she is not afraid. She claims to have been elected five times and worked for the country's development.
Her return vow comes amid complex diplomatic ties. While relations between India and Bangladesh have improved under new Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, Dhaka continues to demand Hasina's extradition. The activities of her former ruling party, the Awami League, have been outlawed.