Key Highlights:
- Bangladesh’s president dissolved Parliament, setting the stage for new elections after Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s resignation and escape.
- Opposition leader Khaleda Zia has been released from house arrest.
- Military chief Gen. Waker-uz-Zaman takes temporary control, promising an interim government to oversee new elections.
DHAKA, Bangladesh — On Tuesday, Bangladesh’s President Mohammed Shahabuddin dissolved Parliament, opening the path for new elections following the resignation and flight of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. This move follows weeks of escalating protests against Hasina’s rule, which had turned violent.
President Shahabuddin also ordered the release of opposition leader Khaleda Zia from house arrest. Zia, a longstanding rival of Hasina, was convicted on corruption charges in 2018 by Hasina’s government.
Military Reorganization and Public Reaction
In a related development, senior military positions were reshuffled. Student protesters declared they would resist any military-backed government. The streets of Dhaka were calmer on Tuesday, with jubilant protesters gathering at Hasina’s residence, posing for selfies with soldiers. The previous day saw angry demonstrators looting her home and other properties.
Dhaka’s main airport resumed operations after an eight-hour suspension, and no new violence was reported.
Read this also: Israel’s Targeted Killings: A Strategic Approach to Security
Background of the Protests
The unrest began with protests against a quota system for government jobs, which critics claimed favored those connected to Hasina’s party. This grew into a broader challenge against her 15-year rule, marked by human rights abuses, corruption, and allegations of rigged elections.
Military’s Temporary Control
Military chief Gen. Waker-uz-Zaman announced he was taking temporary control and, along with the president, promised the formation of an interim government to oversee new elections. However, the student protesters warned they would not allow a military-backed government.
Call for Nobel Laureate to Lead Interim Government
A key student leader, Nahid Islam, suggested Nobel Peace Prize laureate Muhammad Yunus to head the interim government. Yunus, currently in Paris, reportedly agreed to the proposal. The students intend to propose more names for the Cabinet.
Read this also: Venezuelan Opposition Claims Proof of Victory in Disputed Election
Protests and Violence
Protests against Hasina culminated in violent clashes, resulting in significant bloodshed. The Bangladesh Police Association announced a strike due to security concerns after numerous police stations were attacked and several officers were killed.
As Bangladesh awaits the formation of a new government, there is uncertainty about the country’s political stability. The military has a history of significant political influence, and Bangladesh has faced multiple coups since its independence in 1971.
International and Domestic Reactions
The European Union expressed concern over reports of anti-minority violence, and opposition leaders called for restraint to maintain the spirit of the revolution that led to Hasina’s ouster. The United Nations emphasized the need for a peaceful and inclusive transition of power.
Hasina fled to India by helicopter, and she was reportedly taken to a safe house near New Delhi. It remains unclear whether she intends to stay in India or move to another country.
Looking Ahead
With the dissolution of Parliament and the promise of new elections, Bangladesh stands at a critical juncture. The student leaders and protesters hope to influence the formation of a new government that learns from past mistakes and addresses the country’s challenges.
[…] Source […]