One year after Sheikh Hasina was forced to leave Bangladesh and take shelter in India, the former Prime Minister described the event as the “fall of democracy.” In an open letter to the people of Bangladesh,
she condemned the regime that came to power following the 2024 takeover. Hasina labelled the current government as “unelected” and “unconstitutional,” and called for a renewed national commitment to justice, democracy, and unity.
‘Violent Interruption’ Of Democracy
Reflecting on the events of August 5, 2024 — when the current leadership seized power — Hasina described the transition as a “violent interruption” of democratic order and “a betrayal of the people’s trust.” She denounced the regime change as illegitimate, claiming that those in power today do not represent the democratic will of Bangladesh.
“They may have taken power, but they have not taken the spirit or destiny of the people,” she wrote.
Statement from Sheikh Hasina
Marking One Year Since the Fall of Democracy
——————This is an open letter to the honest, hard-working and patriotic people of Bangladesh.
One year ago today, our nation witnessed the violent interruption of our hard-fought democracy, as an…
— Bangladesh Awami League (@albd1971) August 5, 2025
Resilience of the People Amid Hardship
Hasina’s letter acknowledged the difficulties faced by citizens over the past year under what she called a repressive regime. However, she praised the courage, resilience, and unity displayed by the people in the face of adversity.
“In every protest, every voice raised, and every quiet act of defiance, I see the soul of Bangladesh — unbroken and unyielding.”
Reaffirming Democratic Values
Reasserting her belief in the fundamental principles of democracy, Hasina emphasised that “power belongs to the people, not those who seize it by force.” She declared that no government — however powerful — can suppress the people’s will forever.
“History has always favoured those who stood on the side of justice and democracy. That will not change now,” the letter stated.
A Call To Rebuild And Look Ahead
Hasina urged Bangladeshis to continue their struggle for justice, education, peace, and equal opportunity. She promised that democratic institutions would be reclaimed and rebuilt — not just in structure, but in spirit.
“We must look forward, not backwards — toward hope, not oppression,” she wrote, urging a collective effort to restore Bangladesh’s democratic foundations.
Ending on a Note of Optimism
Despite the sombre anniversary, Hasina ended her message on a hopeful note, reaffirming her faith in the resilience of the Bangladeshi people.
“The best days of Bangladesh are not behind us. They are ahead of us, waiting to be claimed by the courage of our people.”
The letter marks one of Hasina’s strongest public statements since her ouster, and is being seen as both a moral indictment of the current regime and a rallying cry for democratic forces across the nation.
