Following the fall of the Awami League government due to a mass uprising, former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, along with several ministers, MPs, and party members, has sought refuge in India. Meanwhile, many who stayed in Bangladesh have been arrested or gone into hiding. According to The Indian Express on Friday (January 24), a WhatsApp group connects 30-40 former Awami League ministers and MPs, with Sheikh Hasina included under the name “Apa.”
Speaking to The Indian Express about the group, former MP Nahim Razzak said, “If we return to the country and demand elections, we will all be arrested and sent to jail.” He explained that the Awami League is willing to discuss and negotiate elections but the current environment makes this impossible. He added that most leaders are being denied bail and are facing severe challenges, including a lack of judicial rights.