Fugitive Bangladesh ex-PM still casting a shadow

Sheikh Hasina, the former Prime Minister of Bangladesh, continues to exert influence despite her current exile. Despite facing the death penalty, she remains committed to returning home, driven by her desire to rekindle her political relevance and support. The 78-year-old, who fled to India two years ago, has vowed to return by the end of the year, despite the risks.

Her return is seen as crucial for the survival of her Awami League party, whose members are being targeted by authorities. Analysts suggest her return is a strategic move to build pressure for the lifting of the ban on her party and to regain political space. However, some critics view her return as a self-serving tactic, questioning her genuine intentions.

Despite her exile, Hasina's return is seen as a potential source of political instability in Bangladesh, a country with a history of political imprisonment. The Bangladesh government has expressed reluctance to accept her, citing security concerns. Meanwhile, India, while not endorsing Hasina's views, is reportedly willing to entertain her request for extradition.

The improved relations between Bangladesh and India have been noted, with Hasina remaining a contentious figure. Some in Bangladesh speculate that India may be using Hasina's return threat as leverage to exert influence over Dhaka.