(RPT of story published August 6, 20247:39 PM GMT+8)
In a dramatic turn of events, Bangladesh’s Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and fled the country on Monday, following weeks of deadly protests. What began as student demonstrations against government job quotas quickly escalated into a nationwide movement demanding her resignation. Here are the key details of the protests that led to the end of Hasina’s long reign:
HASINA RESIGNS AND FLIES TO INDIA
Sheikh Hasina, 76, left Dhaka on Monday aboard a military aircraft and landed at an airfield near Delhi in the evening, according to two Indian government officials. India’s foreign ministry confirmed on Tuesday that Hasina decided to step down after a critical meeting with security force leaders. She sought permission to enter India on short notice, and Bangladesh authorities simultaneously requested flight clearance. She remains in India as of the latest reports.
BANGLADESH PRESIDENT DISSOLVES PARLIAMENT
Following Hasina’s resignation, President Mohammed Shahabuddin dissolved parliament on Tuesday, setting the stage for the formation of an interim government. In a significant move, the president also freed Begum Khaleda Zia, chairperson of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party and Hasina’s long-time rival, from house arrest.
Stay tuned to The VOK for more updates on this developing story.