On August 5, 2024, Bangladesh’s Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and fled the country following weeks of escalating protests that began as student-led demonstrations against a controversial job quota system. The protests quickly transformed into a widespread movement demanding her resignation, fueled by public outrage over government violence and repression.
Background of the Protests
The unrest was initially sparked by a High Court ruling that reinstated a quota system for government jobs, which allocated a significant percentage of positions to the families of war veterans from Bangladesh’s independence struggle. This decision faced backlash from students and young people grappling with high unemployment rates, leading to mass protests across the nation. The situation deteriorated into violent clashes between protesters and security forces, resulting in significant casualties, with reports indicating over 300 deaths and thousands injured during the unrest.
Hasina’s Resignation and Flight to India
As protests intensified and demonstrators stormed her residence in Dhaka, Hasina reportedly took a military helicopter to India, where she remains as of the latest reports. Her departure followed a crucial meeting with military leaders, who indicated they would no longer support her government amid the chaos. Following her resignation, Bangladesh’s President Mohammed Shahabuddin dissolved parliament, paving the way for an interim government, which is expected to be led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus.
The Role of the Military and Interim Government
The military’s involvement has been significant, with army chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman promising justice and announcing an interim government to restore order. The military has previously intervened in Bangladesh’s political landscape, and its current role is being closely monitored by both citizens and international observers.
Calls for Accountability and Future Prospects
In the aftermath of Hasina’s resignation, there are calls for accountability regarding the violence that occurred during the protests. Human rights organizations have highlighted the government’s history of enforced disappearances and abuses under Hasina’s rule, urging the new interim government to prioritize justice and human rights.
Student leaders and activists are advocating for a peaceful transition and have expressed their desire for a government that genuinely represents the people’s interests. The situation remains fluid, with many citizens hopeful for change but wary of potential retaliation against supporters of Hasina’s regime.