In a surprising turn of events, Sajeeb Wazed Joy, the son of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, has expressed a desire to work with the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), despite the long-standing rivalry between the two parties. Joy’s comments mark a significant shift in tone following the recent upheaval that led to the resignation and departure of Sheikh Hasina from Bangladesh amid mass protests.
The historical animosity between the Awami League and BNP, two of Bangladesh’s most prominent political parties, dates back to the foundation of the BNP. Although these parties once united to overthrow the autocratic regime of Hussain Muhammad Ershad in 1990, their relationship quickly soured afterward. Over the years, the rivalry intensified, particularly during elections, where allegations of electoral misconduct have often been a point of contention.
The downfall of Sheikh Hasina’s government came as a result of a massive student-led protest demanding quota reforms, which escalated into a broader movement against her rule. The movement, fueled by widespread public support, culminated in the ousting of Hasina on August 5. Now in exile in India, Sheikh Hasina has yet to make any public statements regarding her political future. However, her son Joy has been vocal in the international media, particularly in interviews with Reuters, where he has made several notable statements about his and his family’s future in politics.
In a recent interview, Joy expressed a willingness to work with the BNP, putting aside past grievances. He stated, “I am pleased with the release of BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia and her statement. Let bygones be bygones. My appeal to them is to forget the past. We should not engage in a politics of revenge. Whether in a unity government or not, we must work together.”
Joy emphasized his commitment to democratic principles, expressing his intention to collaborate with the BNP to ensure free and fair elections in Bangladesh. “We are willing to work with the BNP. I want to work with them to hold democratic elections and restore democracy in Bangladesh. We have a peaceful democracy, where free and fair elections will take place,” Joy remarked.
His comments come in the wake of a BNP rally held in Naya Paltan on August 7, where Khaleda Zia urged her party members to refrain from retaliatory actions. This stance by the BNP leader appears to have influenced Joy’s decision to reach out for cooperation.
Joy also addressed the controversy surrounding his mother’s resignation, defending her against allegations of misconduct. He asserted that while some members of her government may have acted unlawfully, his mother did not order any illegal actions. “There are many conspiracies behind a government. Those responsible should be brought to justice. My mother never ordered violence against protesters,” Joy said.
Regarding his own political ambitions, Joy hinted that he might consider leading the Awami League if the party desires, especially since his mother plans to retire after this term. He also expressed confidence that he could return to Bangladesh whenever he wishes, stating, “I have never done anything illegal. So how can anyone stop me?”
Joy’s overture to the BNP could be seen as an attempt to stabilize the political landscape in Bangladesh following a period of intense turmoil. However, whether this move will be embraced by the BNP and how it will impact the broader political dynamics in the country remains to be seen.
