“Bangladesh faces a turbulent transition as Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigns and flees the country amid violent protests. With at least 100 deaths reported and Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus proposed to lead an interim government, the situation remains volatile. Curfews have been lifted and essential services resumed, but unrest continues. International calls for stability and an independent investigation add to the urgency of finding a resolution.”
In a dramatic turn of events, Bangladesh is grappling with a tense political crisis following the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. The resignation came amid widespread violence and unrest that has claimed at least 100 lives and left hundreds more injured.
Unrest and Chaos Following Hasina’s Departure
The chaos erupted after Hasina, who has been at the helm of Bangladesh since 2009, fled the country under mounting pressure. Her departure, facilitated by a military aircraft, saw her arriving in India, where she is reportedly contemplating seeking asylum in the United Kingdom. However, her plans are uncertain as British authorities have called for a thorough and independent investigation into the violence that has swept through Bangladesh.
On Monday, Hasina arrived at Hindon Airbase on the outskirts of Delhi, where she was met by Indian National Security Adviser Ajit Doval and other senior officials. While Hasina’s departure was intended to be discreet, it has ignited a political maelstrom both domestically and internationally.
Student Protests and Demands for Change
Student leaders, who initially began their protests over job quotas, have escalated their demands to call for Hasina’s resignation and the establishment of an interim government. The students are advocating for Nobel Peace laureate Muhammad Yunus to lead this interim government. A crucial meeting between student protest leaders and Bangladesh’s army chief, General Waker-Uz-Zaman, is scheduled for Tuesday.
The protests have caused significant disruptions, including the storming of the parliament building, looting, and property destruction. Visuals of jubilant protesters ransacking official residences and public buildings have gone viral, underscoring the intensity of the public sentiment.
Response to the Crisis
In the wake of Hasina’s ouster, the Bangladesh government has taken steps to restore normalcy. Curfews have been lifted, and offices, factories, and educational institutions have reopened, though attendance remains low. Flight operations at Dhaka airport have also resumed. Despite these measures, violence persists, and the situation remains volatile.
Bangladesh’s President Mohammed Shahabuddin has taken a significant step by ordering the release of jailed former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia. Zia, the leader of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), had been imprisoned on corruption charges since 2018. Her release may signal a shift in the political landscape as the country moves towards a new government formation.
International Reactions and Calls for Stability
The international community has expressed deep concern over the unfolding situation. The United States has urged for a democratic and inclusive process in forming the interim government and has called for an end to the violence. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has demanded a full and independent probe into the acts of violence.
Sheikh Hasina’s tenure was marked by notable economic growth, with Bangladesh’s GDP expanding at an average rate of over 6% per year. However, her rule was marred by accusations of human rights abuses, corruption, and suppression of political dissent.
As Bangladesh stands on the brink of a new political era, the coming days will be critical in determining the country’s path forward. The formation of a new government and the response to ongoing unrest will shape Bangladesh’s political and economic future in the months to come.
