'Dance of destruction in name of protest': Sheikh Hasina in first remarks after ouster as Bangladesh PM
PTC News Desk: In her first statement since leaving Bangladesh, ousted Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina demanded a probe against those involved in the July "killings and vandalism" and said that the culprits be identified and punished.
Sheikh Hasina also asked people to observe National Mourning Day on August 15 with dignity and solemnity and to "pray for the salvation of all souls" by offering floral garlands to Bangabandhu Bhaban.
"Since last July many fresh lives have been lost due to vandalism, arson and violence in the name of agitation... My condolences to those like me who are living with the pain of losing a loved one. I demand that those involved in these killings and vandalism be properly investigated and the culprits be identified and punished accordingly," Hasina said. "I appeal to you to observe the National Mourning Day on August 15 with due dignity and solemnity. Pray for the salvation of all souls by offering floral garlands and praying at Bangabandhu Bhaban," she added.
In a three-page emotional statement put on X by her son Sajeeb Wazed, Sheikh Hasina spoke about the family members she lost when her father was assassinated on August 15, 1975. The army assassinated Mujibur Rahman's sons and wives, his brother's family, close friends, and associates all on the same night as part of a coup.
Sheikh Hasina voiced her grief over "disrespect" for Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.
"Despite bearing the pain of losing loved ones, I have been working tirelessly to bring smiles to the faces of the distressed people of Bangladesh...Bangladesh has earned a place among the respected developing countries of the world. But today that honour has been tarnished. The memories that were our solace have been burnt to ashes. The Father of the Nation, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, has been subjected to the utmost disrespect. Under his leadership, we achieved independence, self-respect, and a separate identity as a nation. This is an insult to the blood of the lakhs of martyrs who fought for our freedom. I demand justice from the people of the country."
After paying her respects to them, Sheikh Hasina turned to the present day, claiming that the dance of destruction across the country in the name of protest has resulted in many deaths, including "students, teachers, police, journalists, social workers, common people, Awami League leaders and workers, pedestrians, and office workers."
"For those who have lost their loved ones like me, I extend my deepest sympathy. And for those involved in this slaughter, this destruction, I demand that investigations be held and they be caught and given appropriate punishment."
- PTC NEWS
