The Take Another Take: How Sheikh Hasina transformed Bangladesh
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Nov 22, 2025 
Tanvir Chowdhury, Al Jazeera's Bangladesh correspondent, dives deep into Sheikh Hasina's complex legacy as prime minister. He discusses her evolution from a pro-democracy leader to facing accusations of authoritarianism, including quashing dissent and electoral irregularities. Tanvir shares chilling on-the-ground accounts of fear and self-censorship among citizens, alongside contrasting views of Hasina’s economic achievements. The interview paints a vivid picture of the political landscape in Bangladesh, revealing both support and criticism for Hasina's long-held power.
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Exile Sparked A Lifelong Political Fight
- Sheikh Hasina learned of the 1975 coup and her family's murder while abroad and was forced into exile.
- That trauma began her long career fighting for democracy in Bangladesh.
Personality Explains Political Style
- Tanvir Chowdhury describes Hasina as decisive, relentless, and uncompromising in pursuit of goals.
- That personality helps explain both her strong support and her autocratic reputation.
Voters Fear Speaking Out Publicly
- Tanvir recounts street interviews where people feared speaking on camera and described the vote as a staged mockery.
- A rickshaw puller openly called the government autocratic but feared harassment for speaking out.