Weeks of demonstrations against Sheikh Hasina’s rule in Bangladesh culminated in a dramatic turn of events on August 5th, forcing the Prime Minister to flee the country. The protests, which had descended into violent unrest, reached a critical point when officials warned Hasina that demonstrators would reach Ganabhaban, the prime minister’s official residence, from Shahbagh in Dhaka within 45 minutes. Faced with this imminent threat, Hasina’s officials urged her to resign, highlighting the escalating situation and the inability of the police to maintain control. Despite initial resistance and determination to hold onto power, Hasina ultimately relented after her family intervened. According to a report by the Bangladeshi newspaper Prothom Alo English, high-ranking officials first attempted to reason with Hasina, explaining the precarious situation and the potential for uncontrollable violence. However, she remained adamant in her refusal to step down. The officials then turned to Hasina’s younger sister, Sheikh Rehana, requesting her to persuade their sister. However, Hasina remained unwavering in her stance. As a last resort, the officials contacted Hasina’s son, Sajeeb Wazed Joy, who was abroad. Joy spoke to his mother over the phone and eventually convinced her to resign. The officials then accompanied Hasina to the old airport in Tejgaon, where she was whisked away by military helicopter to India at around 2:30 pm. Prior to her departure, Hasina visited Bangabhaban to finalize her resignation formalities. The dramatic turn of events highlights the intense pressure mounting against Hasina’s rule and the growing discontent among the Bangladeshi population. The situation remains fluid and the future of Bangladesh’s political landscape remains uncertain.
