After 15 years of leadership, Sheikh Hasina, often referred to as the “Iron Lady” of Bangladesh, has resigned and fled the country. The resignation came as mass anti-government protests reached a boiling point on Monday, resulting in intense upheaval and violence across Dhaka. For the past three weeks, the city has been a battleground, witnessing severe clashes that led to numerous casualties.
With Hasina’s departure, the streets of Dhaka erupted into celebrations as citizens expressed their relief and joy at the end of her long tenure. The protests, which had been marked by significant unrest and loss of life, prompted a dramatic shift in the country’s political landscape.
In the wake of Hasina’s resignation, General Waker-Uz-Zaman, the army chief of Bangladesh, has announced that an interim government will be established soon. This decision follows consultations with various political parties, though the former ruling party, Awami League, will not be included in the discussions. General Waker-Uz-Zaman pledged to put an end to the violent crackdown that had claimed over 300 lives. He assured the public that efforts would be made to address all injustices and bring about a peaceful resolution.
The general’s statement reflects a significant shift in the government’s approach, focusing on restoring stability and addressing the grievances that led to the widespread unrest. The promise to end violence and address injustices represents a critical step towards healing the fractured nation.
Reports suggest that Sheikh Hasina plans to seek asylum in the United Kingdom following her resignation. However, her potential move to Britain is now under scrutiny. British Foreign Secretary David Lammy has called for a UN-led investigation into the recent events in Bangladesh, which has cast uncertainty on Hasina’s travel plans. The call for an international investigation underscores the gravity of the situation and the need for transparency regarding the recent turmoil in Bangladesh.