Army Chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman announced the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and the formation of an interim government to run the country.
Sheikh Hasina has stepped down as Prime Minister of Bangladesh, with an interim government set to take over, Army Chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman confirmed today.
WORLD DESK – Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has resigned, and an interim government will be formed to run the country, Army Chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman said in a national address this afternoon.
According to the social media sources and Bangladesh media, the anti-reservation agitation, which saw more than 90 people killed yesterday in Bangladesh, has taken the toll and finally the Sheikh Hasina government has fallen as the Army takes over.
This is a big setback for progressive forces in Bangladesh as well as India. Sheikh Hasina was seen as a pro-India prime minister.
Her government’s fall also signals the bouncing back of Islamist forces and this is likely to bode ill for the future of secular and progressive forces as well as minorities, especially Hindus. Hindus have been suffering a long spate of riots and violence by Islamists for quite some time in Bangladesh as fundamentalist Islamist groups and parties are indulging in open violence against them.
Announcement of Resignation
General Waker-Uz-Zaman addressed the nation following Sheikh Hasina’s resignation, stating, "I am taking full responsibility."
He noted that the country had suffered greatly, with the economy impacted and many lives lost, and emphasized the need to end the violence.
Formation of Interim Government
The general indicated his plans to speak with the president to form an interim government.
He mentioned holding discussions with main opposition parties and civil society members but excluded Hasina’s Awami League.
Call for Calm
"If the situation gets better, there is no need for emergency," General Waker-Uz-Zaman said, pledging that the new authorities would prosecute those responsible for the recent violence.
He appealed to students to remain calm and assist in the transition.
Background and Response
The announcement came amid weeks of deadly protests, with protesters entering the Gono Bhaban premises.
General Waker-Uz-Zaman expressed hope that his speech would help stabilize the situation.
