Table of Contents
Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina Resigns
Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has resigned from her post and departed from Dhaka amid escalating violent protests, according to reports from news agencies AFP and ANI. This significant political upheaval was triggered by the Bangladesh Army’s ultimatum, giving Hasina just 45 minutes to step down. As the situation intensified, Hasina, along with her sister Sheikh Rehana, left the Prime Minister’s official residence, Ganabhaban, for a safer location, reportedly traveling to India.
Escalating Protests and Government Response
The latest wave of unrest in Bangladesh began in response to the reinstatement of a quota system for government jobs, a decision that had been a point of contention among students and young job seekers. The ‘Students Against Discrimination’ group, which had previously protested against the quota system, reignited demonstrations demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Hasina.
Last month, violence erupted when student groups protested against the reserved quotas, resulting in at least 150 deaths and thousands of injuries. The Supreme Court’s decision on July 21 to scrap most quotas did little to quell the unrest, as protesters returned with renewed demands. The students’ group, leading the protests, called for Hasina’s public apology for the violence, restoration of internet connections, reopening of educational institutions, and the release of arrested individuals. Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina.
Hasina’s Departure and the Army’s Ultimatum
As protests continued to escalate, the Bangladesh Army issued a stark ultimatum to Prime Minister Hasina, demanding her resignation within 45 minutes. Faced with mounting pressure and violent demonstrations, Hasina chose to resign and leave Dhaka for safety. She and her sister boarded a military helicopter and departed from Bangabhaban at around 2:30 pm on Monday.
A Nation in Turmoil
The demonstrations quickly evolved from demands for reform into a widespread campaign seeking Hasina’s ouster. Protesters accused her government of excessive force during the July protests, an allegation that Hasina’s administration has denied. Hasina, 76, initially claimed that students were not involved in the violence, instead blaming the Islamic party Jamaat-e-Islami and the main opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) for the clashes and arson.
Despite Hasina’s attempts to engage in dialogue, the students’ group rejected her offer for talks, insisting on her resignation as the only acceptable outcome. The protests gained momentum, with demonstrators calling for a nationwide non-cooperation movement, focusing solely on Hasina’s resignation.
Underlying Economic Issues
The current unrest in Bangladesh can be attributed to deeper economic issues, including stagnant job growth in the private sector and high youth unemployment. With nearly 32 million young people out of work or education in a country of 170 million, the competition for public sector jobs, which offer regular wage hikes and privileges, is fierce. The reinstatement of quotas exacerbated frustrations among students who see limited opportunities for employment.
Bangladesh’s economy, once a powerhouse driven by its booming garments sector, has faced challenges in recent years. Inflation remains high at around 10% per annum, and the country’s dollar reserves are shrinking. The economic downturn has further fueled discontent among the population, particularly among the youth.
Looking Ahead
As Sheikh Hasina departs from her post amid this turmoil, Bangladesh faces an uncertain future. The protests and the army’s involvement indicate deep-seated issues that extend beyond the quota system. The nation’s leadership must address the economic and social grievances of its citizens to restore stability and confidence in the government. Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina.
Sheikh Hasina’s resignation marks a pivotal moment in Bangladesh’s political history. The protests, driven by economic discontent and demands for government accountability, reflect the broader challenges faced by the nation. As Bangladesh navigates this period of upheaval, the path to stability will require addressing the root causes of unrest and fostering economic growth to meet the aspirations of its young population.
For more detailed information on the protests and their implications, visit UpdateNoww.
Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina.