Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, in her first statement since her removal from office, called for the prosecution of those responsible for the killings and vandalism that occurred in July, according to Reuters.
She appealed to the public to observe National Mourning Day on August 15 with appropriate respect and solemnity. Hasina urged people to pray for the souls of the departed by offering floral tributes and prayers at Bangabandhu Bhaban, as noted in a statement shared by her son, Sajeeb Wazed.
Hasina expressed condolences for the many lives lost since July due to vandalism, arson, and violence related to protests. She mentioned the victims, including students, teachers, police officers, journalists, cultural workers, Awami League members, and others who were targeted by terrorist attacks. “I am mourning and praying for their souls,” she said.
Condemning the destruction of the museum dedicated to Bangladesh’s founder, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, Hasina stated, “The Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, under whose leadership we established our identity as an independent nation, has been grievously dishonored. This act insults the blood of countless martyrs. I seek justice from the people of Bangladesh.”
Hasina’s 15-year tenure as prime minister ended on August 5 when she resigned and left the country amid violent protests against her administration. She is currently in a secure location in India.
In response to the unrest, a Bangladeshi court has initiated a murder investigation involving Hasina and six senior officials from her government over the killing of a man by police during recent civil unrest. “A case has been filed against Sheikh Hasina and six others,” confirmed Mamun Mia, a lawyer who brought the case on behalf of a private citizen, according to AFP.
An interim government led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus has been established to oversee the country following Hasina’s departure.
