Ousted Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Tuesday issued her first statement after leaving the country, calling the coup against the Awami League a grave insult to her father, Bangladesh’s founding President Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, and the many martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the country.
“The Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, under whose leadership we gained self-respect as an independent nation, achieved self-identity and an independent country, has been grossly insulted,” Hasina said in a statement issued through her son Sajeeb Wazed.
Hasina lashed out at the forces behind her removal as Bangladesh’s prime minister, saying, “They have dishonoured the blood of lakhs of martyrs. I want justice from the countrymen.”
Besides, the Awami League chief also urged Bangladeshi citizens to observe a national day of mourning on August 15, the anniversary of the assassination of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.
“I appeal to you to observe the National Day of Mourning on August 15 with full dignity and seriousness. Pray for the salvation of all souls by offering floral wreaths and prayers at the Bangabandhu Bhaban,” she said.
The Prime Minister also expressed concern over the ongoing violence and loss of life and property in Bangladesh.
“Students, teachers, policemen, journalists, cultural workers and innocent people have lost their lives due to terrorism and violence. I express my deepest condolences to those who, like me, are living with the pain of losing their loved ones,” Hasina said.
Hasina also demanded strict action against those responsible for the killings and brutality in the country.
“I am praying for peace to his soul. My condolences are with those like me who are living with the pain of losing their loved ones. I demand that those involved in these murders and barbarism be properly investigated and the culprits be identified and punished,” she said.
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