Sheikh Hasina Resigns as Bangladesh Prime Minister Amid Violent Protests, Army Takes Control

In a dramatic turn of events, Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has resigned, and the country's army has taken control amid escalating violent protests demanding her exit. Bangladesh Army Chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman announced to the media that the military will establish an interim government and appealed to the protesters to cease violence and return to peaceful means.

"There is a crisis in the country. I have met Opposition leaders and we have decided to form an interim government to run this country. I take all responsibility and promise to protect your life and property. Your demands will be fulfilled. Please support us and stop violence. If you work with us, we can move towards a proper solution. We cannot achieve anything through violence," said General Waker-Uz-Zaman.

General Zaman confirmed that Ms. Hasina has stepped down and left the state capital, Dhaka, in a military aircraft heading for India. Accompanying the 76-year-old Prime Minister was her younger sister, Sheikh Rehana. Local media reports indicated that protesters had stormed Gono Bhaban, the official residence of the Prime Minister. The Bangladesh Army reportedly gave a 45-minute ultimatum for Ms. Hasina to step down.

Protests and Political Turmoil

The violent protests have dramatically shifted Bangladesh's political landscape. Protesters vandalized a statue of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, Ms. Hasina's father and the leader of Bangladesh's independence movement from Pakistan. These actions signify a stark departure from the legacy of Mujibur Rahman, known as Bangabandhu, who was revered as the father of the nation. The vandalism highlights the protesters' grievances against Sheikh Hasina's government, which they accuse of suppressing dissent and prioritizing political control over democratic freedoms.

The Army Chief revealed that opposition party leaders and civil society members were present at the decisive meeting but clarified that no representatives from the ruling Awami League attended. This move indicates a significant realignment of political forces in Bangladesh, potentially paving the way for a new political order.

Historical Context of Military Coups in Bangladesh

Bangladesh has a turbulent history of military coups. The nation has experienced several periods of military rule since its independence in 1971. The first coup occurred in 1975, leading to the assassination of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, and was followed by a series of coups and counter-coups, culminating in military rule under General Ziaur Rahman and later General Hussain Muhammad Ershad.

The military's involvement in politics has left a lasting impact on Bangladesh's governance. Each intervention has been marked by promises of stability and restoration of democracy, yet often resulted in prolonged periods of military control and political unrest.

The current intervention by the army under General Waker-Uz-Zaman reflects a recurring theme in Bangladesh's history, where the military steps in amid political crises. However, the future trajectory of this intervention remains uncertain, as the country grapples with the immediate aftermath of Sheikh Hasina's resignation and the formation of an interim government.

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Future Prospects

The formation of an interim government by the military marks the beginning of a critical juncture for Bangladesh. The success of this interim government in restoring order and addressing the protesters' demands will significantly influence the country's political future. General Zaman's assurances to protect lives and properties and fulfill the demands of the protesters are crucial in gaining public trust and moving towards a peaceful resolution.

As Bangladesh navigates this period of uncertainty, the international community will closely monitor the situation, hoping for a swift return to democratic governance and stability. The legacy of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and the political dynamics of the Awami League will also be under intense scrutiny as the nation charts its path forward.

Arbind Kumar Singh

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