Sheikh Hasina’s Son Accuses Pakistan’s ISI of Instigating Political Unrest in Bangladesh
Bangladesh:Sajib Wazed Joy, the son of recently resigned Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, has alleged that Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) is responsible for the political turmoil in Bangladesh. In an interview with German media from Virginia, Sajib Wazed Joy claimed that the events of recent protests, including midnight marches, rumors, manipulated social media narratives, and armed attacks on police, indicate the involvement of a foreign intelligence agency.
He questioned the source of firearms used by protesters, suggesting that the provision of such arms could only be facilitated by a foreign intelligence agency. Joy also revealed that his mother, Sheikh Hasina, was determined not to use force against the protesters. He explained that she had instructed the police and military to refrain from using lethal force and had decided to resign rather than have blood on her hands.
Joy stated that his mother had planned a structured constitutional transition of power but was forced to leave the country when protesters advanced towards the Prime Minister’s residence. He clarified that Hasina did not leave under military pressure but was persuaded by family members to leave the country for safety.
Regarding the handling of protests, Joy admitted some government mistakes but believed the situation was aggravated beyond necessary levels. He noted that Hasina’s comments about quotas for volunteers in government jobs led to heightened tensions, with some students misinterpreting her statements and escalating the situation.
On the issue of security force actions during the protests, Joy mentioned that the government had suspended officers who used excessive force. He defended the government’s actions, stating that the responsibility for illegal actions by a few should not reflect on the entire administration.
When asked about the future of Sheikh Hasina in politics, Joy indicated that she has not yet decided on her next steps and has not completely left Bangladesh, as this was her final term in office. He also predicted that either the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) or the Awami League would soon come to power, as these are the major political forces in the country.
