In a dramatic turn of events, Sheikh Hasina, the Prime Minister of Bangladesh, has resigned and fled the country following weeks of violent anti-government protests. According to an aide, Hasina, 76, left Dhaka on Monday aboard a military helicopter, accompanied by her sister. This departure came after a nationwide curfew failed to prevent thousands of protesters from besieging the prime minister’s residence in the capital city.
The scene in Dhaka was chaotic, with images showing flames engulfing vehicles near Hasina’s home as police struggled to control the surging crowds. The unrest began in July with student protests demanding the abolition of a controversial quota system for government jobs. These protests escalated, leading to clashes with police and pro-government groups, resulting in over 300 deaths.
The resignation of Hasina, who had been in power for a cumulative 20 years, was met with mixed reactions. Celebratory crowds flooded the streets of Dhaka as news of her departure spread. The violence that erupted on Sunday, which saw nearly 100 fatalities, intensified calls for accountability from the government.
The recent unrest had been fueled by discontent over a quota system designed to reserve a significant portion of civil service jobs for the families of those who fought for Bangladesh’s independence in 1971. Although the government had reduced the quota, protests persisted, demanding justice for the victims and Hasina’s resignation.
On Sunday, the army chief, Waker-Uz-Zaman, announced that an interim government would take charge and called for calm. He assured the public that justice would be pursued for the deaths and crimes associated with the protests. The interim government is expected to engage with all major political parties to address the crisis.
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The violence had already led to a nationwide clampdown, including the closure of courts, suspension of mobile internet services, and restricted access to social media platforms. Reports indicate that over 11,000 people have been arrested during the unrest, which has also disrupted education and daily life across the country.
In response to the escalating violence, UN human rights chief Volker Türk urged restraint from both the Bangladeshi government and protesters. He highlighted the need for an end to violence, restoration of full internet access, and the creation of conditions for meaningful dialogue.
Hasina’s resignation marks the end of a long and controversial tenure. During her time in office, she presided over significant economic growth, transforming Bangladesh into one of the fastest-growing economies in the region. However, her leadership was also marked by allegations of corruption and authoritarian practices. Critics accused her government of suppressing dissent and curtailing democratic freedoms, with numerous reports of enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings.
As Hasina seeks refuge in India—a longstanding ally of Bangladesh—there are questions about the future political landscape of the country. With an interim government in place and ongoing protests, the situation remains volatile. The international community and the people of Bangladesh are left to watch as the country navigates through this unprecedented crisis.
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