Bangladesh Prime Minister Hasina Resigns and Escapes as Protesters Storm the Palace

In a dramatic development that has sent shockwaves through Bangladesh's political landscape, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has resigned from her position and left the country, according to a statement from the nation's top military official. This unprecedented event follows weeks of intense civil unrest that has gripped the South Asian nation.

General Waker-Uz-Zaman, in a televised address to the nation on Monday, announced that an interim government would be established to manage the country’s affairs. His statement came as thousands of demonstrators, defying a nationwide curfew, converged on the prime ministerial palace in Dhaka.

Hasina, who had led the country for two decades, reportedly departed via military helicopter, as confirmed by an aide speaking to Al Jazeera. Her departure marks the culmination of a month-long period of civil discord that has tragically claimed approximately 300 lives.

The unrest was ignited by a controversial job quota scheme, which allocated a third of government positions to descendants of veterans from Bangladesh's 1971 war of independence against Pakistan. Although Hasina eventually reversed this policy, the initial protests evolved into a widespread movement challenging her administration and the ruling Awami League party.

In the hours following the announcement of Hasina's departure, the mood on the streets of Bangladesh shifted from tension to celebration. National television broadcast images of jubilant crowds breaking into the prime minister's official residence, while thousands more took to the streets in a display of elation.

General Waker-Uz-Zaman, in his address, called for public trust in the military's ability to restore peace. He pledged to ensure accountability for the lives lost and crimes committed during the protests, urging citizens to exercise patience and refrain from further violence or vandalism. The general also announced that representatives from major political parties had been invited to collaborate with the interim government.

Tanvir Chowdhury, reporting for Al Jazeera from Shahbag Square, the epicenter of the student protests, described the scene as unprecedented. “People from all walks of life are celebrating,” Chowdhury noted, adding that the prevailing sentiment among protesters is that future administrations will need to heed the will of the people or face similar consequences.

As Bangladesh stands at this critical juncture, Irene Khan, a UN special rapporteur, highlighted the challenges that lie ahead. “The military faces a very tough job,” Khan stated, expressing hope for a peaceful transition and accountability for recent human rights violations. She underscored the importance of the army respecting human rights as the nation navigates this period of significant change.

The unfolding situation in Bangladesh represents a pivotal moment in the country’s history, with the potential to reshape its political landscape and set a new course for its future. As the world watches, the coming days and weeks will be crucial in determining how this South Asian nation moves forward from this extraordinary turn of events.