What is the PM's signal achievement in her last 13 years in office?
In our eyes, even more than the economic growth and stability that has lifted millions out of poverty, her greatest achievement has been the transformation of Bangladesh in the eyes of both Bangladeshis and the world.
Outside the country, where Bangladesh was once a punch-line, a byword for poverty and dependency – it is now seen as a vibrant, dynamic country, to be respected and taken seriously, one that can stand on its own two feet and take its seat at the table of the comity of nations as a full global citizen, equal to all.
The transformation internally has been even more pronounced, and young Bangladeshis today have a self-confidence, self-belief, and self-respect that is quite different from days gone by.
This is in no small part due to the example of Sheikh Hasina who has always held her head high in the international arena and represented Bangladesh with pride and the conviction that Bangladesh and Bangladeshis need to bow down to no one.
This was most recently seen with respect to the construction of the Padma Bridge, but her stance there was fully in character for her and for Bangladesh today.
It is with all of the above in mind that the words of Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen, when he requested the Indian government to do whatever is necessary to ensure continuation of the Sheikh Hasina government, appeared all the more jarring.
He portrayed Bangladesh as a supplicant nation, as a small fish, as a country that is dependent for its survival and stability on the goodwill of others.
Nothing could be more insulting, to either the people of this country or the PM herself.
In the course of her political career, she has never kowtowed or made Bangladesh appear weak.
She doesn't make herself or Bangladesh small. She stands tall whoever she is speaking with and whatever the issue.
And it is expected that her ministers will follow her example.
We expect better and the PM deserves better.
Bangladesh does not require the assistance of foreign powers to stabilize our nation.
