Sheikh Hasina given 45 minutes to resign, flee: Reports
According to a report in the leading Bengali daily Prothom Alo, Sheikh Hasina, in a moment of high tension, reportedly remarked about the police, saying, “At one point, Sheikh Hasina said, indicating the IGP, they (the police) are doing well.” This comment was made during a critical period when Hasina was reportedly given 45 minutes to resign and leave the country. The situation reflects the intense pressure and rapidly evolving circumstances surrounding Hasina’s resignation amid the ongoing political crisis in Bangladesh.
Sheikh Hasina’s Resignation: A Detailed Account of the Final Hours
On Tuesday, a leading Bengali daily, Prothom Alo, reported dramatic details surrounding the resignation of Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. According to the report, Hasina was given a tight 45-minute deadline by the top brass of the security establishment to resign and leave the country. The intense situation unfolded as protesters, demanding her resignation, were marching towards her residence, adding pressure on her administration amid escalating violence across the nation.
The Crisis Unfolds
On Monday morning, Hasina convened a critical meeting with the top security officials as protests intensified. The day prior had been marked by deadly clashes, resulting in over 100 fatalities nationwide. The atmosphere was fraught with tension as the demonstrators’ demands for Hasina’s resignation became increasingly urgent. The escalating violence had pushed the security forces to their limits, and the top officials were acutely aware that the situation was beyond their control.
During the meeting, Hasina reportedly indicated to the Inspector General of Police (IGP) that the police were managing the situation well. However, the IGP countered this assertion by warning that the situation had deteriorated to a point where even the police could no longer maintain their stern stance. The security officials attempted to persuade Hasina that continuing to rely on force would no longer be feasible. Despite their efforts, Hasina was initially resistant to the idea of stepping down.
Family Intervention
As the situation became increasingly dire, the top officials sought assistance from Sheikh Rehana, Hasina’s younger sister, in an attempt to convince the Prime Minister. Rehana was brought into a separate room where the officials explained the gravity of the situation and implored her to persuade Hasina to resign. Although Rehana made an attempt to influence her sister’s decision, Hasina remained resolute in her desire to retain power.
The turning point came when one of the top officers decided to contact Hasina’s son, Sajeeb Wazed Joy, who was abroad at the time. Joy’s conversation with his mother over the phone played a crucial role in swaying Hasina’s decision. Following the call with Joy, Hasina agreed to step down from her position.
The Final Preparations
Given the urgency of the situation, Hasina was informed that there was no time for her to record a farewell speech to the nation. Reports indicated that intelligence had relayed information about a large group of students advancing towards Ganabhaban, Hasina’s official residence, from Shahbagh and Uttara. With an estimated 45 minutes required for the protesters to reach Ganabhaban, there was a pressing need for Hasina to leave promptly. Consequently, she was instructed to prepare for her departure without delay.
In the final hours leading up to her resignation, Sheikh Hasina, along with her sister Sheikh Rehana, proceeded to the helipad at the old airport in Tejgaon. They had some personal luggage loaded and then traveled to Bangabhaban, where Hasina completed her resignation formalities. The departure was conducted with a sense of urgency, and by around 2:30 pm, Hasina and Rehana left Bangladesh via military helicopter, heading towards India.
The Impact and Aftermath
The sudden and dramatic resignation of Sheikh Hasina marked a significant turning point in Bangladesh’s political landscape. The reports of widespread violence and the rapid collapse of Hasina’s administration underscore the volatile nature of the situation. The resignation followed a period of intense protests and clashes, which had strained the country’s security forces and created an atmosphere of uncertainty.
Hasina’s departure to India has led to heightened scrutiny of the political crisis in Bangladesh and its implications for the region. The situation has prompted concerns about the safety of political figures and the stability of the country’s governance. As Bangladesh moves forward from this tumultuous period, the focus will likely shift to the formation of a new interim government and the restoration of order.
International Reactions
The international community has closely monitored the unfolding events in Bangladesh, particularly in light of the violence and instability. India’s role in sheltering Sheikh Hasina and the subsequent diplomatic implications of her departure have been significant. The situation in Bangladesh has raised questions about regional stability and the potential impact on neighboring countries.
Former diplomats and regional experts have expressed concerns about the potential for increased unrest and the possibility of a surge in migrants seeking refuge due to the ongoing political turmoil. The response of the international community, coupled with local efforts to address the crisis, will be crucial in shaping the future trajectory of Bangladesh’s political and social landscape.
Conclusion
The dramatic resignation of Sheikh Hasina, as detailed by Prothom Alo, reflects the high-stakes nature of the political crisis in Bangladesh. The final hours of her tenure were marked by intense negotiations, family intervention, and a rapid response to the escalating protests. As Bangladesh navigates this period of transition, the focus will be on ensuring stability and addressing the underlying issues that led to the crisis. The international community’s response and the formation of a new interim government will play key roles in determining the country’s path forward.