Hasina who is returning from visits to the US and UK is scheduled to board a Dhaka-bound flight of Etihad Airways from Heathrow at Bangladesh time 3:00am. After a stopover in Abu Dhabi, the airliner will arrive in the city at 4:45pm.

The AL had submitted a list of around 100 people to the interim administration, seeking permission to receive its president. But an adviser to the caretaker government yesterday informed AL General Secretary Abdul Jalil that they would not allow more than 10 leaders in the airport.

During her stay overseas Hasina was charged with extortion and murder.

She left Dhaka on March 15 and had plans to return on April 23. But on April 18, a day before she reached London from Washington the government issued a press note imposing a ban on her entry into the country. Besides, a Dhaka court issued a warrant for her arrest.

But later the court suspended operation of the warrant while the government withdrew the restrictions. In response to the developments at home, she said she would go back and face the charges against her.

Speaking to the press at his Mercantile Bank office in Motijheel yesterday afternoon, Jalil said they are concerned about security of the former prime minister. "We hope there will be no problem. If necessary the people will come forward to ensure her safety," he said adding that it however still rests with the government to make the necessary security arrangements.

The AL general secretary also said the party would take the initiative to bring reforms in it once its chief is back. "No reforms without Sheikh Hasina," he said reiterating the call for immediate withdrawal of the ban on indoor politics.

Earlier on Saturday talking to The Daily Star by phone from London, Hasina said it is not possible to begin the work on the reforms as long as the ban is in place.

Asked if the government might complicate matters over Hasina's return, Jalil said, "In that event, we will pursue legal measurers."

As of last night the AL leaders were busy trying to persuade the military-backed administration to allow more leaders, said a party insider.

Meanwhile, sources said the government has already communicated to the AL top brass some kind of unofficial prohibitions against mass gathering and chanting slogans, they added.

Though the party has no plans to give her a public reception, a good number of leaders and workers from across the country might flock to the airport to welcome her back.

A senior leader said the supporters and leaders will rather use placards and festoons instead of chanting slogans. Those who wish to be at the airport, it will be their own responsibility.

Jalil said they have no plans for reception as the state of emergency is in force. He however dropped hints that an indoor reception might be arranged but that too after discussing the issue with the AL president.