Sajeeb Wazed Joy, the son of former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, has expressed a willingness to enter politics amidst the current turmoil in Bangladesh. Speaking from Washington DC, Joy stated, “I will do whatever it takes to save the party and its workers. If there is a need for me to join politics, I will not refrain from that.”
This marks a notable shift from Joy’s previous stance, where he had shown no interest in a political career. He attributed his decision to the recent political developments in Bangladesh, which he believes have created a leadership vacuum.
Joy mentioned, “My mother would have retired from politics after the current term. I never had any political ambition and was settled in the US. However, the recent events have compelled me to become more involved for the sake of the party.”
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His remarks follow the release of Khaleda Zia from house arrest and the expected return of her son, Tarique Rahman, to Dhaka. Additionally, an interim government led by Nobel Laureate Md Yunus has recently taken charge in Bangladesh.
Joy expressed confidence in the Awami League’s prospects in upcoming elections, asserting, “I am sure the Awami League will take part in the election and we might even win. We have the largest supporter base in Bangladesh.”
He also addressed concerns about his mother’s future, stating, “For the time being, she is in India. She will go back to Bangladesh the moment the interim government decides to hold an election.”
Meanwhile, Joy’s sister, Saima Wazed, reaffirmed her commitment to her role as the WHO regional director, despite the challenging circumstances in Bangladesh. She posted on X, expressing her heartbreak over the situation and her inability to be with her mother during this time.
Joy also highlighted the need for introspection within the Awami League, acknowledging past mistakes and emphasizing that the party was prepared for self-reflection. He cautioned against potential alliances between the BNP and Jamaat-e-Islami, warning of possible negative implications for minority safety and regional security.
“If the Awami League is not in power, the eastern border of India will not be secure,” Joy warned, urging India to apply pressure on Bangladesh to expedite the electoral process.
