Political tensions in Bangladesh have reached a dangerous peak as the capital Dhaka faces escalating violence ahead of Monday’s court verdict against exiled former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Her son and adviser, Sajeeb Wazed Joy, has vowed resistance, declaring that they are “determined to fight back by whatever means necessary” if the ban on the Awami League is not lifted.
In the past week alone, unrest has intensified: several crude bombs exploded on Sunday, while 32 blasts were recorded on November 12, along with dozens of buses set on fire. Police claim they have detained Awami League supporters over suspected sabotage.
Security forces have responded with force. Authorities have:
• Deployed over 400 Border Guard personnel
• Reinforced checkpoints across the capital
• Restricted public gatherings
• Tightened surveillance around government buildings and courts
“The government’s priority is de-escalation and protection of life and property,” a government spokesperson said, insisting that law and order will be maintained ahead of the anticipated verdict.
Wazed, speaking from Washington, said he and Hasina were in direct communication with party activists on the ground but not with the interim government or the opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), which is widely expected to lead the next elected government.
“You’re seeing in the last few days shutdowns across the country, massive protests throughout the country, and they’re only going to get bigger,” Wazed warned.
Hasina, credited with driving Bangladesh’s economic growth but also accused of suppressing dissent, won a fourth consecutive term in the 2024 election — one boycotted by the opposition after mass arrests and intimidation.
Now, with the tables turned and Hasina facing a verdict widely expected to convict her in absentia, Wazed said her resolve is unbroken.
“She’s upset, angry, outraged,” he said. “And we are all determined to fight back by whatever means necessary.”
