Sheikh Hasina, Bangladesh’s deposed Prime Minister, has issued a strong condemnation of the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus, accusing it of perpetrating severe human rights abuses against non-Muslims. In a strongly worded Christmas address, Hasina stated that the current regime, which she characterized as having “seized power illegally,” is actively suppressing religious freedoms. She detailed accusations of “unspeakable atrocities” and asserted that violence against minority populations has intensified considerably since her government was removed from power last year. Referencing the recent murder of a Hindu man, Hasina condemned the government for establishing “horrific precedents such as burning religious minorities to death,” and expressed her belief that the people of Bangladesh would soon reject such oppressive governance.
The nation is currently experiencing significant unrest, with minority communities reporting a disturbing increase in targeted violence over recent months. In Dhaka, various organizations have staged protests, decrying the government’s alleged failure to protect vulnerable groups. Concerns are particularly acute in regions where attacks on Hindu households and businesses have occurred. Hasina took the opportunity of Christmas to convey her best wishes to the Christian community for happiness and peace, hoping the holiday would foster harmony among Bangladesh’s diverse populace. Her message included a wish for a transition from darkness to light and for the perpetual strength of Bangladesh.
Meanwhile, the brother of the late radical leader Sharif Osman Hadi has alleged a conspiracy within the Yunus government to assassinate his brother, with the intention of derailing the upcoming general elections. This assertion was made shortly after a key government aide resigned. The brother directly accused individuals within the interim government of orchestrating Osman Hadi’s murder and subsequently using it as a means to disrupt the electoral process. He issued a strong demand for the immediate unmasking of all individuals involved in the killing, warning of significant repercussions if the government fails to act.