Janice R. Andrews
Sheikh Hasina, the prime minister of Bangladesh who was overthrown, has, in a stunning change of events, called on her supporters to stage a public demonstration of strength later this week. This call was placed shortly after a judge granted permission for a murder investigation to move forward against her, which was connected to the disturbances that caused her to resign from office. After leaving her nation amid widespread protests, Hasina—who had maintained an iron grip on power for 15 years—made her first public statements since resigning. She is currently staying in neighboring India.
A Sharp Decline in Authority
Following weeks of severe upheaval in Bangladesh’s capital, Dhaka, the 76-year-old leader was forced to depart his country last week. Crowds of demonstrators poured onto the streets, calling for her resignation and the end of her protracted reign. After more than 450 people were killed during the riots, Hasina fled by chopper to India, where she is currently seeking safety.
The political climate in Bangladesh has significantly changed as a result of her departure. Violence between demonstrators and security personnel characterized the upheaval that followed her removal, with police weapons being held responsible for the majority of the fatalities. In addition to upsetting Dhaka’s daily routine, the violence rocked Hasina’s Awami League party, which has ruled the country for more than ten years.
Request for Open Display of Strength
Hasina asked her followers to honor the National Day of Mourning on August 15, which marks the anniversary of her father Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s 1975 killing, in her first public address since her departure. Her administration had made this day a national holiday, and it has great political and emotional significance in Bangladesh.
“Through her US-based son, I am appealing to you to observe the National Day of Mourning on August 15 with appropriate respect and solemnity,” Hasina stated in a written message to media. She urged her supporters to “pray for the salvation of all souls by offering floral garlands and praying” at the historic Dhaka home of her youth, which was recently set on fire and trashed by a mob after her removal.
Bangladesh’s newly elected caretaker government had earlier said that it would no longer be celebrating this divisive festival. Though she is abroad, Hasina intends to keep her power and inspire her supporters, as seen by her appeal for public action.
A Call for Fairness and Responsibility
Hasina also called for a probe into the murders and other criminal activity that took place during the upheaval that ultimately led to her collapse in her remarks. Insisting that the guilty be “identified and punished,” she demonstrated her willingness for responsibility despite her own legal troubles.
A Dhaka court had earlier in the day launched a murder inquiry against Hasina, two prominent members of her Awami League party, and four high-ranking police officers. They are being held accountable for the July 19 shooting murder of a grocery shop owner who was shot dead by police trying to put an end to the protests. The extrajudicial executions of thousands of political opponents by Hasina’s regime, which have long been condemned for violating human rights, have complicated the current legal procedures.
The Future of Bangladesh and the Interim Administration
Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus returned to Bangladesh after Hasina’s overthrow to lead a provisional government entrusted with guiding the nation through this turbulent time. Yunus is recognized for having helped millions of Bangladeshis escape poverty. He was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2006 for his contributions to microfinance. Now that he is eighty-four, he has the enormous task of leading the country through democratic changes and setting up elections in a few of months.
As the “chief adviser” to the caretaker government, Yunus has stated that he intends to organize elections shortly and has emphasized the importance of a smooth handover of power. With the exception of retired brigadier general Sakhawat Hossain, who serves as home minister, the interim administration is composed of civilians. It has pledged to uphold human rights and see to it that those guilty of crimes committed during the turmoil are held accountable.
Impact on the Garment Industry and Economy of Bangladesh
Bangladesh’s economy has suffered greatly as a result of the political unrest, especially its vital garment sector. The turmoil has shook the sector, which consists of 3,500 enterprises and contributes 85% of the nation’s $55 billion in yearly exports. Foreign diplomats have been convinced by the incoming administration that the crisis is just transitory and that investments in the industry would be safeguarded.
Speaking to diplomats, Foreign Minister Touhid Hossain underlined that the administration is “very serious about human rights” and dedicated to averting more bloodshed. He was optimistic that things would settle down and that Bangladesh could carry on with its economic expansion.
The world is intently observing Bangladesh as it struggles through this unsettling time, eager to see how it would handle the issue. The nation’s future course will be largely determined by Sheikh Hasina’s demand for public action and the efforts of the interim administration to bring order back.
