Army Announces Formation of Interim Government in Bangladesh Amid Unrest
DHAKA, Aug 5: In a dramatic turn of events, Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina fled the country on a military aircraft, landing in India, while the army intervened to stabilize the rapidly deteriorating situation. Hasina’s clandestine departure marks the end of her 15-year tenure, as confirmed by Army Chief General Waqar-uz-Zaman during a televised address.
Anti-government protests have intensified in recent days, largely fueled by the controversial quota system that reserves 30% of government jobs for families of 1971 liberation war veterans. The unrest has resulted in over 100 fatalities in the last two days alone. As news of Hasina’s exit spread, protesters seized the opportunity to loot and vandalize her residence, along with other notable landmarks including the Bangabandhu memorial museum and multiple government offices.
General Zaman, now at the helm of an interim government, urged both the army and police to exercise restraint. He appealed to the public to cease violence and assured that justice would be served. Despite the turmoil, no members of Hasina’s Awami League party were present in the Army Chief’s meeting with political leaders.
Hasina’s escape to India saw her making a brief stop at Hindon airbase, where she met with Indian National Security Adviser Ajit Doval before securing a safe location. Her family has confirmed that she will not reenter politics, having left the country for her safety.
Back in Dhaka, jubilant crowds celebrated the end of Hasina’s rule, often resorting to further vandals and looting. Key government and political sites, including the Parliament building and police headquarters, were overrun. Notably, even the Awami League office and the homes of several officials were targeted in the chaos.
As the nation grapples with the fallout of these seismic events, the interim military-led government faces the daunting task of restoring order and addressing the deep-seated grievances that culminated in this unprecedented crisis.
Original Story https://theshillongtimes.com/2024/08/06/bangladesh-burns-hasina-flees-to-india/
Category : INTERNATIONAL
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