Tomorrow is May 7, a red letter day in the history of the nation, as Awami League President and incumbent Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina returned home on this day in 2007 defying a ban on her homecoming during the state of emergency.

On this day in 2007, amid the state of emergency declared by the then caretaker government, Bangabandhu’s daughter Sheikh Hasina returned to the country en route to London, after receiving treatments in the United States, defying all obstacles and conspiracy, said a press release of AL today. 

At that time, the then caretaker government imposed an illegal ban on Bangabandhu’s daughter Sheikh Hasina. The caretaker government was involved in a conspiracy to prevent Sheikh Hasina from entering Bangladesh. But the Awami League president announced to return to the country ignoring the illegal ban of the then government. 

Protests against illegal bans erupted worldwide. The then caretaker government was forced to lift the ban on her homecoming under the pressure of Sheikh Hasina’s determination, courage and the democracy-loving people.

She was arrested on July 16, 2007, in a conspiracy case. He was detained until her release on parole on June 11, 2008. Bangabandhu’s daughter Sheikh Hasina returned home on December 4 after going abroad for treatment. Democracy in Bangladesh was restored through a massive movement and struggle under the courageous and far-sighted leadership of Sheikh Hasina.

In the face of the movement, the then caretaker government was forced to hold parliamentary elections. The Awami League-led grand alliance formed the government with a huge margin in the 9th parliamentary elections held on December 29, 2008. 

Sheikh Hasina’s homecoming on May 7 is a significant incident in the country’s history of democratic movements and struggles, development and progress and achievements.

There is no alternative to Sheikh Hasina’s leadership in the country’s politics to keep intact the fundamental principles and democratic values of Bangladesh with the spirit of Liberation War, said the release.

On the occasion of May 7, Bangladesh Awami League urged the countrymen to pray for the sound health and long life of Sheikh Hasina.