Sheikh Hasina Resigns and Flees Amid Unprecedented Violence
On Monday, Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and fled the country amid escalating violence that has claimed numerous lives, marking one of the worst periods of unrest since the nation’s independence over fifty years ago.
Army Chief Announces Interim Government
Army Chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman announced Hasina’s resignation in a televised address, stating that an interim government would be formed. Media reports indicated that Hasina, 76, was flown out of the country in a military helicopter along with her sister, headed to India. The CNN News 18 television channel reported that she landed in Agartala, the capital of India’s northeastern state of Tripura, across the eastern border of Bangladesh. These reports have yet to be verified by Reuters.
Protests and Violence Escalate
The violence, which erupted from student protests over government job reservation quotas, has escalated into a larger movement demanding Hasina’s ouster. Hasina, who secured a fourth consecutive term in a January election boycotted by the opposition, faced intense opposition as the protests grew. The clashes have resulted in approximately 250 deaths and thousands of injuries.
Army Takes Control
General Zaman, who took over as army chief on June 23, mentioned in his address that he had engaged in discussions with major political party leaders and planned to meet with President Mohammed Shahabuddin to discuss the path forward. He urged the nation to be patient and refrain from violence, promising justice for the recent turmoil.
Public Reaction and Unrest
In response to Hasina’s departure, thousands of jubilant protesters took to the streets of Dhaka, storming her official residence, Ganabhaban, and even vandalizing a statue of her father, independence leader Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. The country remains under an indefinite curfew, with widespread violence reported in numerous districts. Key services, including the railway and garment factories, have been suspended indefinitely as the nation grapples with the ongoing crisis.
Government and International Response
Hasina’s government has been criticized for excessive force against protesters, though she has labeled the violent demonstrators as terrorists aiming to destabilize the nation. Over the weekend, there have been attacks, vandalism, and arson targeting government buildings, offices of the ruling Awami League party, police stations, and houses of public representatives. The army’s role in managing the violence has come under scrutiny, with retired military officers urging Hasina to withdraw troops and seek political solutions.
Looking Ahead
The situation continues to develop, with the army now playing a critical role in maintaining order and seeking a resolution. General Zaman’s promise of justice and his call for patience and non-violence will be crucial as the interim government navigates the challenges ahead.
