By Anjali Sharma
WASHINGTON – Bangladesh Awami League Chairperson and former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Thursday extended New Years greetings and called on citizens to unite to “save the country from this journey into darkness.”
The message was posted on the official X handle of the Bangladesh Awami League, carried New Year message from Sheikh Hasina to the people of Bangladesh.
Awami League chairperson Sheikh Hasina in a strongly worded message, referred to the conspiracies working to destroy the country.
She claimed that those attempting to destroy Bangladesh had been exposed.
Hasina accused unnamed forces of pushing Bangladesh into crisis.
She said, “You have seen how illegal usurpers, holding you hostage, have pushed the country toward darkness through limitless corruption, falsehood, and the intoxication of serving personal interests.”
Sheikh Hasina appealed to Bangladesh citizens to come together to save the country from the journey into darkness.
She urged people to make a collective commitment at the start of the year.
Hasina said, “Let us, as we welcome the New Year, pledge ourselves to that commitment of protecting the nation.”
She highlighted Bangladesh’s history and identity, she warned that the distinct identity of Bangladesh and its historic struggle for liberation were being questioned.
Hasina recalled past moments of national unity during crises.
She added, “In the past, whenever such critical times have arisen, this nation has united, forgetting differences of class, religion, colour, language, and ethnicity, and has leapt forward to realize a collective dream.”
She expressed confidence in the people, Sheikh Hasina said she believed Bangladeshis would not allow the current hardships to continue for long and that a decisive outcome would be seen in the New Year itself.
Sheikh Hasina also raised concerns about Bangladesh’s global standing, saying the country’s name had become associated with fear internationally, resulted in a loss of respect for its people.
She referred to economic challenges, she said insecurity among foreign investors and donor groups, coupled with chaotic conditions, had led to an economic collapse
“Happy New Year, my beloved Bangladesh. May the New Year bring boundless harmony, happiness, and prosperity for all the people of Bangladesh,” the Awami League chairperson said.
The message reflected her hope for renewal and reconciliation in the year ahead.
She stated, “May it wipe away the sorrows and afflictions of the past, correct mistakes and shortcomings, and become a memorable year for everyone.”
Hasina reiterated her long-standing vision for the country, said it was her “deepest dream and lifelong aspiration” that Bangladesh should truly belong to all its people, irrespective of religion, colour, class, profession, or ethnic identity.
She concluded her message, as she wished for peace and stability in 2026, hoping that every citizen’s life would “shine in safety and harmony.”
“Happy New Year 2026! Joy Bangla, Joy Bangabandhu. May darkness give way to dawn May Bangladesh live forever,” she ended her message.
