In a stunning development, Bangladesh’s Army Chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman confirmed on Monday that Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has resigned and left the country amidst escalating violence.
In a televised address, General Waker-Uz-Zaman stated that Hasina, 76, had departed Bangladesh and that an interim government would be formed to address the ongoing crisis. “The Prime Minister has left the country,” he announced, emphasizing the military’s commitment to stabilizing the situation.
According to media reports, Hasina fled in a military helicopter accompanied by her sister. Initial reports suggest she is headed to the eastern Indian state of West Bengal, though another source claims she might be en route to India’s northeastern state of Tripura. These reports remain unverified by Reuters.
Following the announcement, visuals broadcasted on television showed jubilant crowds flooding the streets of Dhaka, chanting slogans and celebrating Hasina’s departure. Protesters stormed her official residence, Ganabhaban, some carrying away furniture and electronics from the heavily guarded premises.
The announcement by General Waker-Uz-Zaman comes amid some of the worst violence seen in Bangladesh since its independence. The unrest, initially sparked by student protests over a controversial quota system in government jobs, has evolved into a widespread movement demanding Hasina’s resignation. Deadly clashes over the past month have resulted in the deaths of nearly 250 people.
As the interim government prepares to take charge, the priority will be to restore order and address the grievances that have fueled the recent violence.
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