Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, currently in exile in India and sentenced to death in absentia, has announced her intention to return to Dhaka before the end of the year. The 78-year-old Hasina fled Bangladesh in August 2024 following a student uprising that ended her 15-year rule. She was convicted in November of crimes against humanity, including incitement and failing to prevent atrocities. Hasina maintains the verdict is politically motivated and part of an illegal process, emphasizing her five previous election victories. Despite the death sentence and the outlawing of her political party, the Awami League, she expressed confidence in overcoming obstacles to her return. Relations between Bangladesh and India have improved since February’s election, though Bangladesh continues to seek Hasina’s extradition.