Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned on Monday and fled the country, as violence surged to some of the highest levels seen since the nation’s independence over 50 years ago, according to Reuters.
Army Chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman announced Hasina’s resignation in a televised address, stating that an interim government would be established.
Reports indicate that Hasina, 76, was airlifted by military helicopter, accompanied by her sister, and was heading to India.
The resignation follows a period of intense unrest sparked by student protests last month against reservation quotas for government jobs. These protests quickly escalated into a broader movement calling for Hasina’s removal, following her re-election to a fourth consecutive term in January, a vote boycotted by the opposition.
The violence has resulted in the deaths of approximately 250 people and injuries to thousands. The situation intensified over the weekend, with nearly 100 fatalities reported on Sunday alone, including at least 13 police officers. This marked the deadliest day of protests in Bangladesh’s recent history, surpassing the previous high of 67 deaths reported on July 19 during similar demonstrations.
In response, the government imposed an indefinite nationwide curfew starting at 6 p.m. (1200 GMT) on Sunday and declared a three-day general holiday beginning Monday. Over the weekend, attacks, vandalism, and arson targeted government buildings, ruling Awami League party offices, police stations, and homes of public officials.
Violence was reported across 39 of the country’s 64 districts.
Television footage captured scenes of jubilation in the capital, Dhaka, with thousands pouring into the streets, chanting slogans, and celebrating Hasina’s departure. Protesters stormed Hasina’s official residence, Ganabhaban, looting furniture and other items. Some climbed a statue of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, Hasina’s father and a key independence leader, and began chiseling at its head.
Student activists had organized a march to Dhaka on Monday, defying the curfew to demand Hasina’s resignation, following deadly clashes on Sunday. General Zaman stated that he had held “fruitful” discussions with leaders of major political parties and would soon meet with President Mohammed Shahabuddin to chart the next steps.