In a dramatic turn of events, Sheikh Hasina, who has led Bangladesh for the past 15 years, resigned and fled the country on Monday, escaping by helicopter amid escalating violence that has claimed over 300 lives. The political turmoil has prompted the formation of an interim government to restore order.
Hasina’s departure came after weeks of intense protests and unrest. Landing at Hindon Air Force Station near Delhi, she has requested asylum from the United Kingdom. Accompanying her is her sister, Rehana, who holds U.K. citizenship, as reported by The Hindu.
In Dhaka, Army Chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman confirmed Hasina’s resignation in a national address. He urged protesters to cease their demonstrations and promised to address their grievances and seek justice for the victims. General Waker-Uz-Zaman stated that he would consult with the President to establish an interim government and engage with the main opposition parties and civil society, though not with Hasina’s Awami League party. He also plans to meet with student leaders who have been central to the protests.
On the same day, thousands of protesters participating in the ‘March to Dhaka’ campaign, organized by the Students Against Discrimination, defied curfew orders and gathered at key locations in Dhaka. Their demands for Hasina’s resignation have fueled ongoing demonstrations, highlighting the deep-rooted dissatisfaction with the current administration.
As Bangladesh navigates this critical juncture, the interim government faces the formidable challenge of addressing both the immediate needs of its citizens and the underlying issues that led to the widespread unrest.