Sajeeb Wazed, son and advisor to former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, condemned the violent protests in the country that led to her resignation and escape abroad. He expressed deep concerns over the current state of “anarchy” in Bangladesh, highlighting attacks on minorities. In an exclusive interview with WION diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Sajeeb said, “After all she has done, after all the development, Bangladesh will now become Pakistan.” These remarks came a day after Sheikh Hasina, aged 76, was flown to India with her sister in a military helicopter. She is expected to move to London later, where she may seek political asylum.
Sajeeb criticized the international community for its relentless criticism of his mother during her 15-year tenure as Prime Minister, a period marked by stability and economic growth in Bangladesh.
The country has been rocked by violent student protests over job reservations, leading to numerous deaths and the eventual reversal of the policy. Protestors stormed the prime minister’s palace on Monday, prompting Sheikh Hasina’s resignation and escape to India. According to AFP, at least 56 people were killed in the unrest on Monday.
Describing the situation in Bangladesh, Sajeeb Wazed stated that the country is in a state of anarchy, with no rule of law and mobs vandalizing homes, factories, and minority communities. He pointed out that militants are attacking Hindu temples, further destabilizing the nation.
When asked if he had spoken to his mother, Sajeeb confirmed he had, noting that she was in good spirits but deeply disappointed with the people of Bangladesh. “After all she has done, after all the development, Bangladesh will now become Pakistan,” he reiterated.
Regarding her return, Sajeeb said there are no plans for Hasina to come back, as she had intended to retire after her term. He criticized the interim government for excluding the Awami League and expressed that the people of Bangladesh will get the leadership they deserve.
Sajeeb ruled out his own future in politics, stating that his family has endured multiple coups and is now tired of trying to save Bangladesh. He expressed frustration with the people of Bangladesh, calling them ungrateful for their past leadership.
Sajeeb also highlighted the vandalism of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s statues, describing it as a sign of ingratitude from the people of Bangladesh.
Sidhant Sibal noted that Sajeeb sounded very disheartened, to which Sajeeb agreed, reflecting on his efforts to modernize and digitize Bangladesh without compensation from the government.
Regarding the international community, Sajeeb had no message, sarcastically noting that they can now watch the minorities being killed in the absence of Sheikh Hasina’s leadership.
Sajeeb expressed doubt about the interim government’s ability to bring stability to Bangladesh, pointing out the ongoing violence and the lack of effective action from the military and interim government.
When asked about his mother’s future plans, Sajeeb said she has no specific plans and will likely spend time with her grandchildren in India or other countries where their family is settled.
Finally, Sajeeb wished the people of Bangladesh “good luck” and emphasized that his family is done with the political struggles in the country.
In a related development, the Indian government has granted Sheikh Hasina an interim stay while she seeks asylum in the UK. During this period, India will provide logistical support. Her stay in India is temporary, pending her relocation to Britain, with no confirmation yet from the UK regarding her asylum request.
