A celebration of resilience and indomitable leadership

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, the unparalleled leader of Awami League and Bangladesh, returned to her homeland today, 42 years back, after a significant journey. After the brutal assassination of the Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and his family members on August 15, 1975, both Sheikh Hasina and her sister Sheikh Rehana could not return to the country for six long years even after losing all their family members due to conspiracy and a sense of insecurity of the assassins and their patrons.

Boarding on an aircraft of the Indian Airlines, Sheikh Hasina reached the then Kurmitola Airport in Dhaka from the Indian capital of New Delhi via Kolkata at 4.30pm on May 17 in 1981.

As we celebrate Sheikh Hasina’s Homecoming Day, we commemorate her unwavering determination, steadfast leadership, and relentless pursuit of progress. This day not only marks her triumphant return but also serves as a reminder of the transformative impact she has had on Bangladesh.

Sheikh Hasina’s Homecoming Day stands as a symbol of resilience and indomitable spirit. It was on this very day that Sheikh Hasina, alongside her immediate family members, braved immense personal and political hardships to return to Bangladesh in 1981. Despite facing adversities, including the tragic assassination of her father, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, and numerous attempts on her own life, Sheikh Hasina never wavered in her commitment to her nation.

She was made president of the Awami League after returning home from India. She has been serving as the President of the Awami League for well over forty years. This is a unique achievement. In these 42 years, not only has she been the President of the Awami League, not a single leader or activist of the party thinks that Sheikh Hasina has any alternative. This is a remarkable achievement for a political leader. And that is why they think that Sheikh Hasina is the only alternative to Sheikh Hasina.

Since assuming office as the Prime Minister of Bangladesh in 2009, Sheikh Hasina has been a beacon of hope and progress for her country. Under her visionary leadership, Bangladesh has experienced remarkable growth and development. From poverty alleviation and women’s empowerment to infrastructural advancements and digital innovation, her government’s policies have transformed the socio-economic landscape of the nation.

Sheikh Hasina’s strategic vision is best reflected in her administration’s ambitious yet achievable goals outlined in Vision 2021 and Vision 2041. These frameworks have paved the way for Bangladesh’s emergence as a global player, focusing on sustainable development, inclusive growth, and the establishment of a Digital Bangladesh.

One of the most remarkable aspects of Sheikh Hasina’s tenure has been her unwavering commitment to the welfare of the people. Her government has introduced a range of social welfare programmes, including healthcare initiatives, education reforms, and poverty eradication efforts, ensuring that no one is left behind in the nation’s progress. By prioritizing human development, Sheikh Hasina has empowered millions of Bangladeshis and given them a chance to thrive in a rapidly changing world.

Sheikh Hasina’s leadership has garnered widespread international recognition. Her bold stance on climate change and efforts to mitigate its effects has earned her accolades and respect worldwide. She has been instrumental in positioning Bangladesh as a global advocate for climate justice and securing international support to combat environmental challenges.

As we celebrate Sheikh Hasina’s Homecoming Day, let us honour her exceptional leadership, remarkable resilience, and unwavering commitment to progress. Sheikh Hasina has shown us that through determination and vision, a nation can rise above its challenges and create a brighter future for its people. Bangladesh stands proud today, thanks to her remarkable journey and her unwavering dedication to her country’s development.