Hasina says it is her 'last term' in office

Prime minister Sheikh Hasina has indicated that her current tenure might be the last term as head of the government, Deutsche Welle reports.

The German agency, quoted her, referring to her exclusive interview, as saying that she wants to create room for younger leaders.

The reported indication came a month after she formed the government for the third consecutive time after the 30 December elections, plagued by allegations of rigging and intimidation.

“It’s the third consecutive term and before that I was prime minister [1996-2001], so it’s my fourth term. I don’t want to continue for more [time]. I think that everybody should take a break so we can accommodate the younger generation.” Sheikh Hasina, now on a visit to Germany, was quoted to have told the DW on Thursday.

According to the interview text, Hasina confirmed that this would be her last term as premier.

The DW mentioned that Bangladesh’s burgeoning growth and development have not silenced Hasina’s critics, who say she has not done much to ease restrictions on freedom of expression and prevent attacks on liberal thinkers in the country.

However, Hasina was quoted to have said that she supported free thought in the country and criticism was only natural. “If you work more you will hear more criticism,” she argued.

“You should ask my people whether they are satisfied or not, what they think, whether they are getting all they need, whether I can provide this.”

Hasina and her Awami League have also been accused of stifling political discourse and trying to establish a one-party rule, a charge the prime minister denied, the DW said.

“This time, Awami League candidates were elected in 260 constituencies [out of 300]. So, other parties are also in parliament. How can it be one-party rule?” Hasina was quoted to have said.