Aanchal Varshney
In a dramatic escalation of political unrest, Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has resigned and fled the country amid violent anti-government protests. The army, led by General Waker-Uz-Zaman, has announced the formation of a caretaker government to restore order. The protests, which began on Friday, have resulted in the deaths of at least 300 people, including policemen.
Background of the Protests
The unrest was triggered by the Bangladesh High Court’s decision to reinstate a quota system for government jobs, including a 30% reservation for families of veterans from the 1971 war of independence from Pakistan. This decision overturned a 2018 ruling by Hasina’s government, leading to widespread discontent. The situation escalated when the Supreme Court suspended the High Court’s order pending further proceedings.
This quota system has been a contentious issue in Bangladesh for many years. Supporters argue that it ensures fair opportunities for those who sacrificed for the nation, while opponents claim it discriminates against other qualified candidates. The reinstatement of this system by the High Court was seen as a step back by many, leading to immediate backlash and protests across the country.
Sheikh Hasina’s Resignation and Escape
Sheikh Hasina, who had been in power for 15 years, resigned on Monday and was evacuated to India. She arrived at Hindon Air Base in Uttar Pradesh on a C-130 transport aircraft and is expected to seek political asylum in London. Reports suggest that her sister Rehana, who holds UK citizenship, is accompanying her. Hasina’s departure marks a significant shift in Bangladesh’s political landscape, ending a long period of her dominance.
Her resignation came after days of intense pressure and escalating violence. Protesters, angered by her refusal to meet their demands and perceived authoritarian rule, intensified their actions, storming government buildings and vandalizing property. The situation became untenable for Hasina, leading to her decision to flee.
Army Chief Announces Interim Government
Following Hasina’s resignation, Army Chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman announced that the military would form an interim government. He pledged to investigate all deaths and acts of injustice during the recent protests, stating, “The country has suffered a lot, the economy has been hit, many people have been killed – it is time to stop the violence.”
General Waker-Uz-Zaman, who assumed his position as Army Chief just over a month ago, faces a daunting task. His announcement has been met with cautious optimism by some and skepticism by others. The promise of an interim government and investigations into the recent violence are seen as necessary steps to restore order, but the public remains wary of military rule.
President Dissolves Parliament and Releases Khaleda Zia
President Mohammed Shahabuddin has dissolved the parliament, which was formed after elections in January this year. He also ordered the release of prisoners from the protests, including former Prime Minister and opposition leader Khaleda Zia, who had been jailed for graft in 2018.
Khaleda Zia’s release is a significant development in the current crisis. As a key opposition leader and arch-rival of Sheikh Hasina, her freedom is expected to alter the political dynamics in Bangladesh. Zia, who has been in poor health, was seen as a political prisoner by many of her supporters. Her release has been welcomed by the opposition and could lead to new alliances and shifts in the political landscape.
International Reactions
Canada
Foreign Minister Melanie Joly said her country “condemns the human rights violations, deaths, torture, arbitrary arrests and lethal force” used in response to the protests.
“During this transition, we urge all parties to respect and uphold democratic institutions and processes and the rule of law,” Joly said in a statement.
Germany
A Federal Foreign Office spokesperson said it is “important that Bangladesh continue on its democratic path” amid the unrest in the country.
Unrest and Vandalism
Protesters stormed and looted Hasina’s official residence and her family’s ancestral home-turned-museum, causing significant damage. The museum is a historical site where Hasina’s father, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the country’s first president and independence leader, was assassinated. The looting and vandalism of these symbolic sites reflect the deep-seated anger and frustration of the protesters.
Throughout Monday, thousands of demonstrators continued to pour into and out of Hasina’s official residence, setting fires, carrying out furniture, and pulling raw fish from the refrigerators. They also massed outside the parliament building, where a banner reading “justice” was hung. The scale and intensity of the protests have highlighted the extent of public discontent and the challenges facing the interim government.
Economic and Social Impact
The political crisis in Bangladesh has significant economic implications. The protests and resulting instability have disrupted businesses, markets, and daily life. The economy, already strained by global challenges, faces additional pressures due to the ongoing unrest. The World Bank and other international organizations are closely monitoring the situation and its potential impact on development projects and financial stability.
The social fabric of Bangladesh is also under strain. The violence and polarization have deepened divisions within society. Families affected by the violence, both among protesters and security forces, are grappling with loss and trauma. The interim government faces the daunting task of not only restoring order but also healing the societal rifts that have been exacerbated by the crisis.
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