Ousted Bangladesh leader’s son says only an inclusive election could stabilize the country
DHAKA, Bangladesh — DHAKA, Bangladesh (AP) — The son of Bangladesh’s ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has urged the country’s interim government to remove the ban on Hasina’s party, warning that an election without their participation would lack legitimacy.
Speaking to The Associated Press on Wednesday, Sajeeb Wazed Joy emphasized the importance of an inclusive election for stability in Bangladesh under the current interim government led by Nobel Peace Prize laureate Muhammad Yunus.
Joy stated, “The ban must be lifted, and the elections must be open, fair, and inclusive.” He expressed concern that the current restrictions were designed to prevent his mother and other political leaders from participating in the upcoming elections, calling it a manipulation of justice.
The upcoming election in February 2026 will mark the first since Hasina was ousted following a student-led uprising that ended her 15-year rule, resulting in her exile to India.
Yunus assumed leadership after Hasina’s removal and pledged reforms to restore order. However, his government later banned the activities of Hasina’s Awami League party, leading to arrests and exiles of many senior members.
Several human rights organizations have criticized the ban on Awami League’s activities, citing violations of freedom of association and expression.
Joy, who has resided in the U.S. for three decades, raised concerns about the lack of election preparation for the Awami League party, warning that any last-minute adjustments would undermine the election’s credibility.
The political landscape in Bangladesh has been tumultuous since Hasina’s ousting, with the Bangladesh Nationalist Party and Jatiya Party emerging as major players in the upcoming election.
Joy also highlighted the resurgence of the Islamist party Jamaat-e-Islami and its efforts to form alliances, warning of potential instability if the current situation persists.
He criticized Yunus for allegedly supporting Islamists and orchestrating a rigged election to benefit them.
The interim government has yet to respond to these allegations.
Joy acknowledged past mistakes by Hasina’s government but disputed claims of excessive force during the protests, urging a thorough investigation into the reported deaths.
He also criticized the Yunus government for alleged human rights abuses and political repression, particularly targeting supporters of the Awami League.
The situation in Bangladesh remains complex, with political tensions and uncertainties leading up to the upcoming election.
