Bangladesh in Turmoil: PM Hasina Resigns Amid Deadly Protests and Uprising
Bangladesh PM Hasina Resigned amid Bloody Protest
On Monday, Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and fled the country following a deadly crackdown on protests that had escalated over the past month. The demonstrations began as a protest against job quotas that were perceived to favor veterans' families and eventually swelled into a broader movement demanding her ouster. In Dhaka, jubilant crowds stormed the grounds of the Prime Minister's residence, looting furniture and other items. In a symbolic act of defiance, protesters defaced a statue of Hasina's father, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the nation's founder.
Hasina, who had ruled for 20 of the past 30 years, fled for her safety at the insistence of her family. Her son, Sajeeb Wazed Joy, confirmed to the BBC World Service that Hasina was disappointed by the uprising and would not attempt a political comeback. The army chief, General Waker-Uz-Zaman, announced her resignation in a televised address, promising justice and the formation of an interim government. The army has since imposed a curfew, and Hasina is reportedly on her way to London via India.
Key Takeaways
- Violent Crackdown: The protests, initially sparked by opposition to job quotas, resulted in a violent crackdown with around 250 people killed and thousands injured. The situation deteriorated over the weekend, with at least 56 more deaths reported on Monday.
- Government's Response: Hasina's government had earlier imposed a curfew and declared a general holiday in an attempt to control the situation. The military's involvement, including the announcement of an interim government, signals a significant shift in power.
- Hasina's Departure: The resignation marks the end of Hasina's 15-year second stint in power. Her departure was met with mixed reactions, with some celebrating the change and others mourning the chaos and loss of life.
Analysis
The downfall of Sheikh Hasina's government can be attributed to a combination of factors, including economic issues, political repression, and widespread public dissatisfaction. Despite Bangladesh's impressive economic growth under her leadership, issues like income inequality, corruption, and labor rights concerns persisted. Politically, Hasina's tenure was marked by accusations of authoritarianism, suppression of opposition, and curtailment of civil liberties.
The protests were a culmination of growing frustration among various societal groups, including students who felt marginalized by the job quota system. The government's heavy-handed response, seen as an attempt to stifle dissent, only fueled the protests further. The military's decision to intervene and announce an interim government indicates a possible attempt to restore order and prevent further bloodshed.
Did You Know?
- Historic Power Struggle: Sheikh Hasina and her rival Begum Khaleda Zia, both former prime ministers, have dominated Bangladeshi politics for decades. Each inherited political movements from assassinated rulers: Hasina from her father, Mujib, and Zia from her husband, Ziaur Rahman.
- Bangladesh's Economic Growth: Despite the political turmoil, Bangladesh had been one of the fastest-growing economies in the world, with significant progress in sectors like the garment industry, which accounts for a substantial portion of the country's exports.
- UN Peacekeeping Contributions: Bangladesh is one of the top contributors to UN peacekeeping missions, highlighting the country's commitment to global peace and security, despite its internal challenges.
The current situation in Bangladesh reflects a complex interplay of economic aspirations, political struggles, and social dynamics. As the country navigates this turbulent period, the role of the interim government and the military will be crucial in ensuring a peaceful transition and addressing the grievances that sparked the protests.