Bangladesh army takes control after PM Hasina flees amid political turmoil
by Aditi VermaBangladesh plunged into political crisis as the army, led by General Waker-uz-Zaman, took control of the country following the sudden departure of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to London.
The incident took place in Dhaka on August 5.
Visuals showed General Waker-uz-Zaman stands resolutely behind a podium, adorned in his military uniform, bearing the insignia of a four-star general. The atmosphere is tense, with the press and officials attentively listening. General Zaman announces the formation of an army-led government, emphasizing their commitment to meeting the protestors’ demands. His demeanor reflects authority and determination to restore stability.
The political situation in Bangladesh escalated dramatically today as the Bangladesh Army, under the leadership of General Waker-uz-Zaman, assumed control of the country. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina fled to London earlier in the day amid growing unrest and protests.
In a press conference held at 3:30 PM IST, General Zaman announced the army’s takeover and assured the public that an interim government would be formed soon. He pledged to restore stability and address the demands of the protestors, which have included calls for Hasina’s resignation.
“Today, the army has taken responsibility to bring the situation under control,” General Zaman stated. “We will meet all the demands of the protestors and work towards restoring order.”
The General, who has familial ties to Sheikh Hasina, having married her cousin, held a meeting with key political leaders including representatives from the BNP, Jatiya Party, and Jamaat-e-Islami. Notable figures such as professors Afis Nazrul and Jonayet Saki were also present.
General Zaman, a four-star general who took over as Army Chief in June, has a distinguished military career. He joined the army in 1985 and was commissioned in the Corps of Infantry. His father-in-law, General Mustafizur Rahman, also served as the Chief of Army Staff from 1997 to 2000 and was Hasina’s uncle.
The protests, fueled by allegations of corruption and demands for democratic reforms, had been intensifying over the past weeks. The departure of Hasina marks a significant turning point in Bangladesh’s political landscape.
As the situation develops, the international community watches closely, hoping for a peaceful resolution to the crisis.