In the interview published on Friday (July 10), Sheikh Hasina said she could be arrested or even killed upon returning to the country. Still, she wants to return.

She said, "I could be arrested, even killed. Still, I must go. My party's leaders, activists, and supporters are being oppressed. If death comes, I want it to be on my own soil."

The International Crimes Tribunal has sentenced Sheikh Hasina to death in a case related to crimes against humanity linked to the July-August mass uprising. At the same time, all political activities of the Awami League and its affiliated organizations have been banned.

Sheikh Hasina said she and other party leaders have decided to voluntarily return to the country and surrender to the court. In her words, this will test the behavior and judicial process of the current authorities.

Meanwhile, the Bangladesh government has repeatedly called for Sheikh Hasina's extradition from India. The Reuters report said her return could create new tensions and divisions in the current political situation.

This is the first time Sheikh Hasina has mentioned a specific timeframe for returning to the country since staying in India. She claimed she has not discussed the matter of returning with any foreign government.

She said, "They are repeatedly sending letters to India requesting my return. I will go on my own."

Meanwhile, senior Awami League leader and former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal has also been sentenced to death in the same case. Reuters said it contacted spokespersons of the Bangladesh government for comment on Sheikh Hasina's remarks but received no response.