The political crisis in Bangladesh has now escalated into a sharp communal form, as former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina delivered a rare speech loaded with anger on the occasion of Christmas day.
The 78-year-old Awami League leader delivered the speech from a position outside the government, criticizing the interim administration led by Muhammad Yunus for watching helplessly as violence against the minority religions intensified in the country. The speech carried a significant message in relation to a major festival of the minority Christian community in the country.
Sheikh Hasina Christmas Message with a Political Undercurrent
The initial speech slowly turned from an inaugural speech to a condemnation speech. According to Hasina, the current government has failed to ensure the freedom to practice religion in Bangladesh. This comes after reports circulated about violence by crowds in many parts of the nation.
The speech by Hasina highlighted violence by the current Bangladesh administration that puts minorities in fear because they are non-Muslims. The speech by the opposition leader made many headlines in Bangladesh because it pointed out violence by the current government.
Allegations of Atrocities Against Minorities
Hasina’s most scathing attack related to the perpetuation of violence against Hindu citizens including last week’s lynching that sent the country reeling. “Dangerous precedents have been set against doing anything effective against communal attacks,” she said, without pinning blame on specific members of the interim government.
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This is indicative not of isolated examples, she said, but a breakdown in law and order and moral responsibility.
A Reminder of Bangladesh’s Founding Ideals
Referring to the vision of the father of the nation in Bangladesh, Prime Minister Hasina reminded her nation of its enduring commitment to a secular and coexistence based society. She explained that harmonious coexistence is not a mere coincidence but has been an outcome of deliberate political actions taken over the years.
Minority Unrest & Public Protests
Issues about the safety of minorities have made it out into the streets. Over the weekend and early part of this week, minorities held rallies in Dhaka, protesting what they see as a lack of care and response from the interim government.
A Call for Hope & Accountability
Despite her critical tone towards Hasina, her closing words in the speech had a hopeful tone. Hasina was confident that common Bangladeshis would shun violence in favor of unity. With her reference to the meaning of Christmas symbolism in Bangladesh’s rejuvenation, she hoped that darkness could give place to peace.
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Disclaimer: This article is based on public statements and reported events and does not independently verify allegations made by political leaders.
