Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and fled to a “secure location” on Monday following a fresh wave of anti-government protests that engulfed the country, resulting in over 150 deaths in just two days. Accompanied by her sister Rehana, Hasina’s departure marks a significant turn in the political turmoil that has gripped Bangladesh.
The unrest spiraled out of control following weeks of demonstrations over a contentious job quota system, which eventually led to widespread demands for the 76-year-old leader’s resignation.
The former prime minister landed at the Hindon airbase near Delhi after India granted safe passage for Hasina’s aircraft through its airspace at Dhaka’s request, PTI reported. Media sources indicated that Hasina might travel to London. Meanwhile, Bangladesh Army Chief General Waker-uz-Zaman, in a televised address, confirmed Hasina’s resignation. He mentioned he would hold discussions with President Mohammed Shahabuddin, announced the formation of an interim government, and urged demonstrators to cease the violence.
What lies ahead for Sheikh Hasina?
Sajeeb Wazed Joy, Hasina’s son and former adviser, stated that the ousted prime minister would not seek a political comeback. Joy explained that his mother left Bangladesh for her safety at the insistence of her family, PTI reported.
In an interview with Newshour on the BBC World Service, Joy expressed his mother’s dismay, saying she was “deeply saddened that after all her efforts, a minority rose against her,” according to the report.
Reflecting on Hasina’s disappointment, he said, “She transformed Bangladesh. When she assumed power, it was seen as a failing state. It was a poor nation. Until recently, it was considered one of Asia’s rising tigers. She is very disheartened.”
Meanwhile, some media reports suggested that the ousted prime minister might engage in diplomatic talks with the UK for political asylum. The reports added that she could either leave for London on Monday night or remain in India.
Additionally, the reports mentioned that Hasina is likely to meet her daughter Saima Wazed, the World Health Organization’s (WHO) regional director for Southeast Asia, who resides in Delhi.
New Delhi is closely monitoring the rapid developments in Dhaka. India’s National Security Adviser (NSA) Ajit Doval and senior military officials met Hasina at the Hindon Airbase. The IAF and other security agencies are providing her security, and she has been moved to a secure location. There has been no official statement from New Delhi regarding the ongoing events in Bangladesh.
The recent violence brought the total number of deaths since the protests began in early July to at least 320, according to an AFP tally based on reports from police, government officials, and hospital doctors.
