A recently leaked 10-minute phone call, allegedly involving former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, has stirred significant debate on social media and within political circles. While the authenticity of the call has yet to be confirmed, it has garnered widespread attention and provides a glimpse into the challenges faced by the Awami League leader while in exile.
The conversation reportedly occurred between Hasina and Mohammad Tanvir Kaiser, a leader based in the United States from Kamrangirchar, Dhaka. During the call, Tanvir outlines the difficulties facing Awami League leaders, many of whom are currently abroad due to legal issues. Hasina responds by acknowledging her own legal troubles, stating she is implicated in 113 cases and advising Tanvir about the risks of returning to Bangladesh.
In the call, Hasina remarks on the dire state of the party and advises Tanvir to continue supporting the party remotely, citing the numerous legal cases against its members. She also criticizes the current Bangladeshi government, accusing it of corruption and mismanagement, particularly concerning the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant project.
The call also addresses rumors that Hasina was transported by helicopter from Ghaziabad to Delhi, which she dismisses as false, stating she is close enough to return to Bangladesh if necessary.
Additionally, the conversation touches on U.S. politics, with Tanvir speculating about Donald Trump’s potential return to office. Hasina remains indifferent to the outcome, emphasizing the importance of maintaining political connections that could benefit the Awami League.
The leak has generated significant speculation about Hasina’s influence while in exile and the ongoing activities of her supporters abroad. Reports indicate that Tanvir, who is seeking political asylum in the U.S., claimed he was tortured by the Awami League government, a key point in his asylum application.
The leak adds to a series of similar incidents following Hasina’s departure from Bangladesh on August 5 in response to a mass student movement. The release of these calls has led to ongoing discussions about the motivations behind the leaks and their broader implications.