Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina of Bangladesh has resigned following weeks of escalating unrest across the country. The announcement came from the newly appointed army chief, General Waker-Uz-Zaman, in a televised address. Reports suggest that Hasina has fled the capital, Dhaka, by helicopter.
The resignation has sparked widespread celebrations, with thousands taking to the streets and many storming the prime minister’s official residence. Demonstrations, initially centered around government job quotas, had grown into nationwide protests, demanding justice for the deaths of approximately 300 people over the past month.
In his address, General Waker-Uz-Zaman stated that an interim government would be formed to manage the country during this period of transition. The general, who only recently assumed his position, has been thrust into the spotlight amid this political upheaval.
The Ganabhaban area, where Hasina’s official residence is located, has seen scenes reminiscent of the 2022 protests in Sri Lanka when demonstrators stormed the presidential palace. Protesters have also reportedly targeted the homes of other leaders from Hasina’s Awami League party, including former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan.
As the situation continues to develop, many in Bangladesh are calling for Hasina to be held accountable for the violence that has gripped the nation in recent weeks.