Bangladesh's deposed Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Tuesday issued her first statement ever since fleeing the country, describing the coup against the Awami League as a grave insult to her father, the founding President of Bangladesh, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, and the many martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the nation.
"The Father of the Nation, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, under whose leadership we have gained self-esteem as an independent nation, got self-identity and got an independent country, has been grossly insulted," Hasina said in the statement issued through her son Sajeeb Wazed.
"They insulted the blood of millions of martyrs. I want justice from the countrymen," Hasina added, hitting out at the forces behind her ouster as the Bangladesh Prime Minister.
Furthermore, the Awami League chief also urged Bangladeshi nationals to observe national mourning day on August 15 to mark Sheikh Mujibur Rahman's assassination anniversary.
"I appeal to you to observe the National Mourning Day on 15th August with due dignity and solemnity. Pray for the salvation of all souls by offering floral garlands and praying at Bangabandhu Bhavan," she said.
The estranged Prime Minister also expressed concerns over ongoing violence and loss of life in Bangladesh.
"Students, teachers, policemen, journalists, cultural workers, and innocent bystanders have lost their lives due to terrorism and violence. I offer my deepest condolences to those who, like me, are living with the pain of losing loved ones," Hasina said.
Hasina also demanded strict action against those responsible for the killings and vandalism in the country.
"I am condoling and praying for the repose of their souls. 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," she added.
Sheikh Hasina's 15-year tenure as the Prime Minister of Bangladesh came to an abrupt end on August 5, following her resignation and departure from the country. The decision was made amid escalating violent protests against her government.
Currently, Hasina is reported to be in a secure location in India.
Source: India Today