After days of escalating protests, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has resigned and fled Bangladesh, marking a dramatic end to her extended rule. The resignation follows violent student-led protests demanding political reforms and the abolition of the controversial government quota system.
Hasina, in power since 2009, has faced increasing criticism for the lack of transparency in recent elections and alleged interference in the judiciary. Her administration’s attempt to reinstate the disputed quota system for government jobs sparked widespread protests in mid-2024, led by the Students Against Discrimination movement. The protests, which were initially peaceful, turned violent as security forces used live ammunition, resulting in several deaths.
On August 5, protesters gathered near key government buildings in Dhaka, including the Prime Minister’s Office and Ganabhaban, Hasina’s official residence. By midday, protesters had breached police barricades and stormed the gates of the Prime Minister’s residence. Amid the chaos, General Waker-uz-Zaman, the Army Chief of Staff, confirmed Hasina’s resignation in a televised address.
Her resignation ends over a decade of leadership under the Awami League, but the political future of Bangladesh remains uncertain. Opposition groups are calling for reforms, while protests continue across the country, demanding greater democratic freedoms and an end to authoritarian rule.
UPDATE: Hasina reportedly boarded a Bangladesh Air Force C-130 aircraft and flew to Hindan Air Force Station in India, where she was received by Indian officials, including National Security Advisor Ajit Doval. Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar confirmed that Hasina had sought refuge in India due to the escalating violence in Bangladesh.
Asia Pacific Newslog 