Bangladesh’s Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina fled the country on Monday following weeks of deadly protests that culminated in nearly 100 fatalities in a single day. The military has announced the formation of an interim government in the wake of her departure.
Unrest and resignation
The nationwide protests against Hasina’s government began in early July and intensified, leading to her resignation after a particularly violent day on Sunday. In a televised address, Bangladesh’s army chief, Waker-Uz-Zaman, announced Hasina’s resignation and the military’s plan to form an interim government.
“I am taking full responsibility,” General Waker-Uz-Zaman stated, dressed in military fatigues. He did not specify if he would lead the caretaker government but emphasized the need to restore order and address the country’s suffering.
Formation of interim government
“We will form an interim government,” Waker declared, adding that he would consult with the president and had already engaged in discussions with opposition parties and civil society members, excluding Hasina’s Awami League. He expressed hope that the situation would improve following his announcement. “If the situation gets better, there is no need for an emergency,” he assured, vowing to prosecute those responsible for the recent violence.
Prime Minister’s escape
Hasina, 76, fled by helicopter after protesters stormed her palace in Dhaka. Initial reports indicated she left by motorcade before being flown out. Jubilant crowds celebrated in the streets, with some dancing on top of a tank and others smashing a statue of Hasina’s father, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the country’s independence hero.
The protests turned deadly, with at least 94 people, including 14 police officers, killed on Sunday alone. The violence brought the death toll since early July to at least 300, as protesters and government supporters clashed and security forces opened fire. The unrest initially began over civil service job quotas and escalated into broader demands for Hasina to step down.
Background and reactions
Hasina ruled Bangladesh since 2009 and won her fourth consecutive election in January, amid accusations of misusing state institutions to suppress dissent and entrench her power.
Rights groups criticized her government for extrajudicial killings of opposition activists. The anti-government movement drew support from across Bangladeshi society, including film stars, musicians, and singers.
Former army chief General Ikbal Karim Bhuiyan demanded the immediate withdrawal of troops and allowed protests, condemning those responsible for the country’s misery.
As the military moves to stabilize the nation, the future of Bangladesh remains uncertain, with hopes that the interim government will pave the way for a peaceful resolution and democratic restoration.
