Everybody knows that Sheikh Hasina has stepped down from her position as Bangladesh’s Prime Minister, but the question on many minds is: Why was she forced to do so? The recent political upheaval that led to her resignation wasn’t just a sudden development; it was the result of escalating unrest, widespread protests, and growing demands from the public. To understand the full story behind her departure, let’s explore the series of events and factors that culminated in this significant change in Bangladesh’s leadership.
The Spark of Protest
The unrest began in July when students in Dhaka took to the streets. Their anger was directed at a controversial job quota system, reinstated by the High Court, which reserved a large portion of government jobs for descendants of war veterans. This decision was seen as a way to favour those linked to Sheikh Hasina’s Awami League party.
The Escalation
As the protests grew, tensions soared. Hasina’s harsh response included calling protesters “terrorists” and ordering a brutal crackdown. The unrest intensified, with over 180 lives lost and numerous buildings set ablaze. The Supreme Court’s eventual repeal of the quota policy did little to quell the anger.
A Leader Under Siege
Sheikh Hasina, the daughter of Bangladesh’s founding father, had long ruled with a firm hand. Despite her recent election victory, her government faced allegations of authoritarianism, including suppression of dissent and extrajudicial killings. The mounting student protests, calling her a dictator, marked a significant challenge to her rule.
The Tipping Point
The decisive moment came with the army’s intervention. Traditionally seen as a neutral force, the army’s stance shifted as former military officials expressed support for the protests. Fears of a “bloodbath” if the violence continued pushed the military to act, further eroding Hasina’s grip on power.
The Chief Justice’s Fall
Amidst the chaos, Chief Justice Obaidul Hassan, a Hasina loyalist, faced intense pressure. Protesters surrounded the Supreme Court, demanding his resignation. The situation escalated quickly, forcing Hassan to resign in the face of a one-hour ultimatum from the demonstrators.
The Aftermath and New Beginnings
With Hasina’s resignation and flight to India, the interim government led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus took charge. The new administration faces the challenge of restoring order and addressing the deep-seated issues that led to Hasina’s downfall. Meanwhile, calls for justice for the victims of the protests continue.