Bangladesh Ambassador to Mexico Compares Fallen Sheikh Hasina to Mussolini

Dhaka, August 1, 2025 – Bangladesh’s Ambassador to Mexico, Mushfiqul Fazal Ansarey, has likened the regime of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to that of Italian dictator Benito Mussolini, describing it as a repressive and intolerant government that systematically dismantled democratic institutions. Speaking at a discussion in Mexico City on July 31, organized by the Bangladesh Embassy to mark the anniversary of the July-August Uprising, the ambassador called for unity to counter ongoing conspiracies by “fugitives” of the fallen regime.

The event, themed “July Uprising and the Journey of Democracy,” commemorated the uprising that led to the restoration of democracy in Bangladesh. Ambassador Mushfiqul highlighted parallels between Hasina’s government and Mussolini’s regime, pointing to the creation of a “sycophantic class” that stifled dissent and the use of the Chhatra League as a “helmet force” to suppress opposition, akin to Mussolini’s Black Shirts. “No one was safe—students, journalists, politicians, and ordinary citizens faced repression,” he said. Mushfiqul noted that democratic institutions were eroded and free expression was denied under Hasina’s rule, leading many to believe Bangladesh would never regain freedom. However, he praised the students, youth, workers, and progressive political parties whose collective resistance restored democracy. He paid tribute to nearly 2,000 “martyrs” who lost their lives in the movement, stressing that their sacrifices demand justice for the atrocities committed. The ambassador also addressed challenges facing the interim government, including a politicized bureaucracy, depleted foreign reserves, and public distrust in institutions. He called for comprehensive reforms, particularly in the civil administration, which he accused of glorifying dictatorship for 15 years. Warning of ongoing conspiracies against democracy, he urged citizens to remain united and prevent differences from turning into division. On human trafficking, Mushfiqul reaffirmed the government’s zero-tolerance stance, pledging strong action against traffickers and support for safe, legal immigration channels. He invited attendees to upcoming events and a photo exhibition celebrating 50 years of Bangladesh-Mexico diplomatic relations. The program began with a moment of silence for the July martyrs, followed by a documentary screening, a photo exhibition on the uprising, and performances of patriotic songs by the Bangladeshi expatriate community in Mexico.

– UNB