Source: BBC News
Introduction
In a dramatic turn of events, Bangladesh’s parliament has been dissolved following the resignation and flight of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. The move comes after weeks of escalating protests led by students, which have resulted in significant violence and unrest across the nation.
Quick Summary
- Incident: Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and fled Bangladesh amid widespread protests.
- Parliament Dissolution: Bangladesh’s parliament has been dissolved to pave the way for an interim government.
- Violence: Over 400 people have died in clashes; police stations torched, and a police strike declared.
- Interim Government: Military chief Gen Waker-uz-Zaman promises the formation of an interim administration.
- Student Demands: Nobel Peace Prize winner Muhammad Yunus to lead the interim government.
- Opposition Releases: Former PM Khaleda Zia and other political prisoners released.
Detailed Breakdown
Prime Minister Resignation and Flight
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and fled Bangladesh after student-led protests evolved into nationwide unrest. The protests began with demands to abolish civil service quotas and escalated into broader anti-government demonstrations. Hasina fled to India as protesters stormed her official residence, ending her nearly 15-year rule.
Parliament Dissolution and Interim Government
The dissolution of parliament meets a key demand of protesters, enabling the establishment of an interim government. Bangladesh’s military chief, Gen Waker-uz-Zaman, has committed to forming an interim administration, emphasizing the need to stop the ongoing violence. Student leaders have rejected a military-led government, advocating for Muhammad Yunus, a Nobel Peace Prize laureate, to become the interim government’s chief adviser. Yunus has accepted the role and is returning to Dhaka from Paris.
Violence and Police Strike
Violence has gripped Bangladesh, with over 400 deaths reported. Monday marked the deadliest day with more than 100 casualties. Hundreds of police stations were set on fire, prompting the Bangladesh Police Service Association to declare a strike, citing inadequate security for its members and blaming authorities for the violence.
Release of Political Prisoners
In a significant development, key opposition leader Khaleda Zia was released from house arrest. Zia, who chairs the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), had been imprisoned on corruption charges she claimed were politically motivated. Her release follows the departure of Sheikh Hasina, which now opens the possibility for elections under a neutral caretaker administration. Other political prisoners, including activist Ahmad Bin Quasem, have also been released.
International Reactions and Border Security
India’s Foreign Minister S Jaishankar expressed deep concern over the situation in Bangladesh and confirmed Hasina’s arrival in Delhi. India has deployed additional troops along its border with Bangladesh and instructed border forces to remain exceptionally alert.
The dissolution of Bangladesh’s parliament and the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina mark a pivotal moment in the country’s history. As Bangladesh navigates this turbulent period, the formation of an interim government led by Muhammad Yunus offers a potential path to stability. However, the nation remains on edge, with the international community closely monitoring developments.