Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina Resigns and Flees Amid Surge in Violence
Bangladesh PM Resigns and Flees Country, Confirms Army Chief Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has resigned and departed the country, confirmed by Army Chief Gen Waker-Uz-Zaman, amidst unprecedented violence and unrest. This marks the first time in over 50 years that the South Asian nation is experiencing such severe turmoil.
Gen Waker-Uz-Zaman, speaking to reporters, announced he is stepping in at a “critical time” and will lead the establishment of an interim government. “I am taking responsibility now and we will go to the president and ask to form an interim government to guide the country through this period,” he said.
Sheikh Hasina, 76, who had governed Bangladesh since 2009, reportedly left by helicopter after protesters stormed her palace in Dhaka. The resignation and departure of the long-time leader follow a dramatic escalation in violence, with widespread protests gripping the capital and beyond.
Celebrations broke out among protesters who had taken to the streets for several days. The situation led to the suspension of internet services overnight and reports of raids and gunfire, including in upscale areas, as tensions rose ahead of a planned mass protest.
Hasina’s government faced severe criticism from human rights groups for allegedly using state power to suppress dissent and entrench its rule. The current unrest was sparked by student-led protests against a quota system perceived to unfairly favor descendants of freedom fighters from the 1971 independence war.
Despite the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn the controversial quota law, the protests have intensified, resulting in numerous casualties. Reports indicate that 94 people were killed in the violence on Sunday alone.
The protests have drawn widespread support from various societal sectors, including artists and performers. During an army headquarters briefing, Gen Zaman promised a thorough investigation into the deaths resulting from the crackdown.
A curfew was imposed on Monday, and many businesses were shut down, but protests continued. Television footage showed demonstrators celebrating and chanting across Dhaka, with one protester describing the atmosphere as one of jubilation and tears of joy.
“I feel out of this world; we’re dancing in the streets now,” a protester told the Guardian. “People are celebrating, singing, and crying all at once. It’s a historic moment of joy and relief.”
