Sheikh Hasina vows to return, but will Bangladesh accept convicted ex-PM?
Awami League leader plans to return from India exile despite facing death sentence over 2024 protest crackdown.

Awami League leader plans to return from India exile despite facing death sentence over 2024 protest crackdown.





![Student activists of the National Citizen Party at a rally before the February 12 election [Masum Billah/Al Jazeera]](https://aljazeeranews-mggx1uo47w.edgeone.app/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/an-ncp-rally-1772075250.jpg?resize=770%2C513&quality=80)



The victorious BNP was sceptical of constitutional reforms outlined in July Charter – now it must implement them.

Bangladesh heads to its first election since protests toppled Sheikh Hasina.

Prapti Taposhi took part in the Bangladesh student-led protests in 2024, which ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.
The young leader of the protest-born National Citizen Party has teamed up with Jamaat-e-Islami to contest elections.
Ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina was the longest-ruling leader in the country’s history.
The country heads to the polls on February 12. Here are the parties and individuals who could shape the outcome.
For the first time, Bangladeshis abroad can vote. That’s exciting many. But others can’t vote — or won’t.
Yunus tried to bring reforms and justice for Hasina-era victims. But as his stint as leader ends, he has his critics.
Verdict comes ahead of elections on February 12 with ousted Sheikh Hasina’s Awami League barred from taking part.
A spate of recent attacks has amplified fears among the country’s religious minorities ahead of the February 12 vote.