The past two months have seen significant unrest in Bangladesh as authorities attempted to amend the existing quota system. The movement against the government was initiated by university students and later joined by others. Tensions escalated when prime minister Sheikh Hasina referred to the protesters as traitors and terrorists. After two months of protests and unrest, which resulted in the deaths of hundreds, Sheikh Hasina finally resigned from office and fled to India, which is arguably her biggest supporter.
Following her departure, the military declared a state of emergency, stating that they support the public and stand with them. The president dissolved parliament and former prime minister Khaleda Zia was released from jail, where she had been imprisoned on charges of corruption in what many viewed as a political move. Bangladesh now needs to find a way to end the unrest and create a peaceful environment, ensuring that the struggle leads to a positive outcome and that no one takes advantage of the situation to harm the country’s sovereignty.
Qurrat Ul Nisa Choudhury
Poonch, AJK
*****
The student protests against Bangladesh’s job quota system ultimately led to ex PM Sheikh Hasina's downfall. There were also many other frustrations with her government, but the quota issue proved to be the last straw. Overall, Sheikh Hasina was in power for over two decades with her latest stint lasting around 15 years. Her government became notorious for suppression of dissent and political witch hunts against rivals, going as far as to ban an opposing party from participating in elections.
Her attempts to quash the student protests were in line with this authoritarian bent. Though the former PM did try to respond to protesters’ concerns about the quota system, it was ultimately too little too late. She resigned on August 5 and fled the country for India. The Bangladesh army appears to be in charge now. The only way democracy can survive in Bangladesh is through free and fair elections. This will help the economy too.
Sami Khan
Mardan
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