Sheikh Hasina to Address Media in India on August 5 After Ouster

Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is slated to make her first public appearance since her ousting, nearly two years ago, at a virtual event hosted by the Foreign Correspondents' Club of South Asia in New Delhi. The event, scheduled for August 5, 2026, will run from 6 PM to 7:30 PM (IST) and will be streamed live on the club's social media channels.

Hasina's address comes on the second anniversary of her departure from office, which followed a significant uprising led by students against her government. The protests escalated in response to a controversial quota system, ultimately leading to widespread demonstrations and her resignation after nearly 16 years in power.

Since her departure from Bangladesh, Hasina has avoided public events and media interactions. Her upcoming speech is anticipated to be a crucial indicator of her future plans and potential return to Bangladesh.

The invitation to the event indicates a gathering of prominent Bangladeshi political figures, diplomats, and public personalities. Expected attendees include Sajeeb Wazed Joy, Hasina's son and former adviser on information and communication technology; Mohibul Hasan Chowdhury Nowfel, a former education minister; and Mahammad Ali Siddique, the general secretary of Bangladesh Human Rights Watch.

Other notable participants will include Shakib Al Hasan, a former cricketer and ex-Member of Parliament; Aminul Hoque Polash, a former diplomat; political analyst Abu Obaidha Arin; and Shah Md Bakhtiar, the director of Bangladesh Human Rights Watch USA. The event will be chaired by Dr. Waiel Awwad, the president of FCC South Asia and the International Association of Press Clubs.

Since Hasina's removal, the political situation in Bangladesh has undergone substantial changes. Following the February 2026 general election, a government led by the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) under Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has been established. This interim administration has initiated legal proceedings against various leaders from Hasina's Awami League party, which is currently facing a ban on political activities under anti-terrorism legislation pending ongoing court cases.