By Wasif Ali Khan
TWA
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Bangladesh Army Chief General Waqar-ul-Zaman has announced the establishment of a coalition government, urging protesting students to end their demonstrations and return home.
Shortly before his speech, news broke that Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina Wajid had resigned and left for neighboring India by military helicopter. Indian news channel News 18 reported that the helicopter carrying Sheikh Hasina landed in the Indian city of Agartala.
General Waqar-ul-Zaman stated, “We are trying to find solutions to the problems of the country,” and mentioned that the army has discussed the situation with representatives of major political parties. “We need some time, we will find a solution,” he added.
Meanwhile, various Bangladeshi TV channels showed scenes of excited protesters waving national flags and celebrating peacefully, including dancing on tanks.
Hasina Wajid’s son has urged the country’s security forces to prevent any takeover of her power. Sources close to Sheikh Hasina said she wanted to record a speech but was unable to do so.
An official statement noted that the army chief told officers on Saturday that the army “always stands with the people.”
A fresh wave of violence in Bangladesh on Sunday resulted in at least 100 deaths and hundreds of injuries as police fired tear gas and rubber bullets to disperse tens of thousands of protesters. Last month, over 200 people died in violent protests against the abolition of the quota system in government jobs.
The recent unrest has led to a nationwide curfew, suspension of railway services, and the shutdown of the country’s major garment industry since Sunday evening.
Pakistani High Commissioner in Bangladesh, Syed Ahmed Maruf, stated that the Pakistan High Commission is closely monitoring the situation and prioritizing the safety of Pakistani citizens. He urged Pakistani students to “restrict themselves to their rooms and keep away from the current situation.” One-third of the 144 students studying in Bangladesh have already returned to Pakistan, with a few more leaving today.
