The Voice News | Kolkata, India — After months of silence, Obaidul Quader, one of the most influential and controversial figures in Bangladesh’s political arena, has resurfaced in an exclusive interview with BBC Bangla. Speaking from Kolkata, the senior Awami League leader asserted that he still considers himself the General Secretary of the party, despite the collapse of the government and his current exile.
The interview, recently published by BBC Bangla, marks Quader’s first public appearance since the July uprising that ousted the Awami League-led administration. The Voice News republishes key elements of the interview for its readers and followers.
In Hiding After the Uprising
Quader disclosed that he went into hiding for three months following the mass uprising, frequently changing locations before fleeing to India in November. He stated that his silence and evasion were necessary responses to the political volatility and personal danger he faced.
The student-led movement that toppled the Awami League government was marked by widespread unrest and violence. According to the Directorate General of Health Services, more than 800 people were reportedly killed. Despite these figures, Quader denied any wrongdoing by the party and stated that no apology or public acknowledgment would be made—at least not until the party leadership could safely return to Bangladesh and resume political activity.
Key Takeaways from the BBC Interview
- Rejection of the Uprising Narrative
Quader dismissed the movement as a genuine popular uprising, instead labeling it a conspiracy driven by “communal” and far-right forces—echoing the Awami League’s long-held narrative of external plots. - The Escape from Dhaka
On August 5, Quader was at his official residence near the National Parliament when protesters armed with sticks and rods approached. Anticipating a breach, he moved to a nearby house. After learning the army chief would deliver a televised speech, he chose to stay hidden and later escaped to Kolkata. - Hiding in a Bathroom
In a dramatic moment, Quader recounted taking shelter with his wife in a bathroom as attackers ransacked the house. His wife reportedly begged the intruders to spare him, while Quader remained silent, refusing to reveal himself. - Assisted by Protesters
In a surprising twist, Quader claimed a group of protesters eventually helped him flee. They disguised him with a mask and different clothing and escorted him on a rickshaw, posing as relatives taking a patient to the hospital. - No Contact with Party Leadership
Quader said he had no communication with Sheikh Hasina or other senior party members during this period, citing fears of surveillance and arrest. - Departure in November
Though urged to flee earlier, Quader remained in hiding until November, when he judged the risks too severe. He left with a mission: to preserve his position as General Secretary, which he claims remains valid until December under party bylaws. - Denial of Military Shelter
Refuting widespread speculation, Quader categorically denied ever seeking refuge in any military installation, insisting he stayed only in private residences.
Political Implications
Quader’s reaffirmation of his leadership role signals the Awami League’s intent to regroup and remain politically relevant. His dismissal of the uprising as illegitimate mirrors the party’s long-established conspiracy narrative and suggests a reluctance to publicly reflect on the causes of the regime’s fall.
The emotive recounting of his escape is clearly designed to humanize him and generate public sympathy, portraying him more as a victim of chaos than a failed leader. His interview from exile may also indicate early moves toward international engagement or support, as part of broader political recalibrations.
Obaidul Quader’s reappearance is both a personal account of fear and survival and a calculated political statement. His claims of loyalty to the party, his refusal to concede any wrongdoing, and his portrayal of the movement as conspiratorial all align with the Awami League’s historical narrative.
Whether this version of events resonates with the Bangladeshi public, especially after months of upheaval and loss, remains uncertain. However, one thing is clear: his re-emergence sets the stage for what may be a significant political repositioning in Bangladesh’s turbulent political landscape.