Mass Protests Lead To Bangladesh PM’s Resignation And Escape

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and fled the country on Monday after a month of violent protests demanding her removal. Demonstrators defied a military curfew and stormed her residence, causing widespread chaos.

The protests, initially led by students, intensified over the past month, resulting in nearly 100 deaths in clashes with police. On Sunday, the violence peaked, with 95 people, including 14 police officers, killed in the capital city of Dhaka.

The unrest began in response to a reinstated quota system for government jobs that many viewed as discriminatory. The policy, which had been previously abolished in 2018 following protests, was reinstated by a court ruling in June. Young people, who see government jobs as essential for a secure future, were particularly affected.

General Waker-Uz-Zaman, the army chief, announced that the military would form an interim government. He urged the nation to cease hostilities, stating, “We must end the violence and destruction. Fighting will not bring any solutions.”

Footage on social media showed protesters looting Hasina’s unguarded residence. The government had temporarily shut down internet services to control the situation, but access was restored later in the day.

The protests have also damaged Bangladesh’s international relations, especially with the United States and other Western nations. Hasina’s government has been accused of election fraud, suppressing political opponents, and limiting press freedoms. Despite winning a fourth term in January, her victory was marred by allegations of irregularities.

The violence has revealed deep societal issues, with over 200 deaths and thousands of injuries since the protests began. The military’s intervention and the establishment of an interim government mark a significant shift in Bangladesh’s political landscape as the country seeks stability and justice.