Bangladesh (Commonwealth Union)_ A group of British parliamentarians has called on the UK government to use diplomatic means to protect the former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheik Hasina in the event that she returns to the country in December 2026. They have expressed concern about the risk of execution, torture or other forms of political violence and have called for clear guaranties of her safety and legal rights. Accordingly, six British politicians and former MEP Dr Charles Tannock have written to UK Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband urging a coordinated diplomatic effort to ensure Hasina gets a fair hearing under the rule of law. They argued that the UK should act before any arrangements are made for her return.
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The parliamentarians have asked the British government to seek a written assurance from the Bangladeshi authorities that Hasina will not face execution or other serious harm. They also want her to be allowed to appoint lawyers of her choice, challenge her conviction and sentence, and participate fully in her defence. The letter raises concerns about what the signatories describe as the increasing politicization of the justice system in Bangladesh. They said serious allegations against Hasina must be investigated independently and handled through a fair legal process rather than used as a means of political revenge.
The lawmakers also referred to concerns raised by Human Rights Watch over the legal proceedings against the former prime minister. These include questions about her ability to choose legal representation and take part effectively in her defence. They have called for an independent review of the case, with possible international monitoring and support from the United Nations. Hasina, 79, has been living in India since August 2024, when she left Bangladesh following a student-led uprising that brought an end to her Awami League government. She was later sentenced to death in absentia in a case involving alleged crimes against humanity during the crackdown on protesters. Hasina has denied wrongdoing and questioned the legitimacy of the proceedings.
Hasina has indicated that she intends to return to Bangladesh around December 2026 and face the legal process. However, the exact date and arrangements for her return remain uncertain. The issue has also raised questions about her travel documents. Bangladesh has not issued her a new passport and is seeking to handle any possible return through its extradition arrangements with India. A London-based legal chamber has reportedly approached the Bangladesh High Commission in New Delhi regarding a new passport and national identity card for Hasina.
The British parliamentarians have also called for international involvement to ensure that any legal proceedings meet accepted standards of justice. They urged the UK to support mediation and political reconciliation in Bangladesh, while stressing that reconciliation should not mean avoiding accountability for serious human rights violations. The letter further states that Hasina and other Awami League leaders should cooperate with independent investigations and lawful proceedings. At the same time, it argues that basic legal rights must be protected regardless of political affiliation.
The appeal carries particular significance given Bangladesh’s membership of the Commonwealth, which also includes the United Kingdom. The MPs believe Britain has a role to play in encouraging respect for human rights, democratic principles and the rule of law. Their central message is that any return by Hasina should take place under clear safety guarantees, with access to independent legal representation and a genuine opportunity to defend herself against the charges.
