Two days after stating that Sheikh Hasina would not return to politics, Sajeeb Wazed Joy has hinted at a possible comeback for the former prime minister. In a video message posted on his verified Facebook page on Wednesday, Joy suggested that the current situation in Bangladesh might prompt a change in their stance.
Joy’s initial statement on Monday indicated that Hasina, who was forced to resign amid a mass movement and leave the country, would not be returning to politics. However, in a reversal, Joy now implies that a return to the political arena is possible due to the ongoing attacks on Awami League leaders and activists.
“There is currently a chaotic situation in Bangladesh. There is vandalism and looting across the country. Our Awami League leaders and activists are being attacked, and many have been killed outside the cities,” Joy said.
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He stressed the enduring presence and significance of the Awami League, stating, “The Awami League is the oldest, democratic, and largest party in Bangladesh. The Awami League has not died. The Awami League has freed Bangladesh. It is not possible to eliminate the Awami League.”
Joy emphasized the party’s resilience, adding, “We had said that our family would not engage in politics anymore. However, given the attacks on our leaders and activists, we cannot give up.” He urged Awami League leaders and activists to stand firm, saying, “We are with you. We are ready to do whatever is necessary to protect our leaders and activists in the country.”
Expressing a willingness to engage in discussions, Joy called for a democratic and orderly Bangladesh, free from terrorism. He added, “To those currently in power, we also want a democratic, orderly, and safe Bangladesh—free from terrorism. For that, we are ready to discuss with everyone, provided they eschew terrorism and violence.”
Joy refuted reports suggesting that Hasina had sought political asylum in the United Kingdom, calling them misinformation. He reiterated the importance of the Awami League in Bangladesh’s democracy, stating, “Sheikh Hasina is not dead. We have not gone anywhere. Democracy and elections in Bangladesh are not possible without the Awami League.”
During Hasina’s 15 and a half years as prime minister, Joy served as her advisor on information and communication technology while based in the United States.