Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister M Rashiduzzaman Millat called on ousted prime minister Sheikh Hasina to return to Bangladesh tomorrow instead of waiting until 31 December.

Referring to reports that Hasina might return, Millat said, “Why 31 December? Come tomorrow. We will follow the legal process to receive you. A pair of handcuffs will be ready.”

He made the remarks on Friday while speaking at an event in Ratanpur Union of Nabinagar upazila in Brahmanbaria.

Millat said Hasina should return to Bangladesh to face trial over what he described as “inhuman acts” and crimes against humanity committed against the people during her tenure.

He also alleged that the previous government had looted public funds and said those responsible would have to face trial.

“The fascist government looted everything in the country to fill its own coffers. But now they cannot enjoy the money they looted. They will return to Bangladesh and face the death penalty,” Millat said.

The minister said the government had requested the neighbouring country to return Hasina and others who had fled Bangladesh.

“We want to address the violation of the people’s rights and the looting of public funds through a fair judicial process,” he said.