Sheikh Hasina steps down as Bangladesh PM: A look back at the unrest that forced the premier to resign

Shaikh Hasina

In an episode reminiscent to the one witnessed in the island country Sri Lanka in 2022, the student protest in Bangladesh that spanned over months has forced  Prime Minister, Sheikh Hasina to step down from her official position on Monday.

The significant development came minutes before national army chief Waker-Uz-Zaman addressed the nation after 98 people were killed in fierce clashes yesterday - the deadliest day in weeks of anti-government demonstrations.

The country witnessed saw of its deadliest days of unrest on August 4 as hundreds of thousands of protesters clashed with government supporters, calling for Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to step down.

Earlier this year, Sheikh Hasina had secured her fifth term as Bangladeshi prime minister in an election whose outcome, opposition say was decided the moment its schedule was announced in early November when the main opposition boycotted the poll.

-The unrest, which began over job quota reforms, has evolved into a broader anti-government movement with widespread support from various sectors of Bangladeshi society. Protesters are demanding the withdrawal of armed forces and an end to government suppression.

-July 1: University students block roads and railways, demanding reforms to a job quota system perceived as benefiting Hasina’s ruling Awami League. Hasina dismisses the protests as futile.

-July 16: Six people are killed in clashes in Dhaka. The government responds by closing schools and universities nationwide.

- July 18: Students reject Hasina’s appeal for calm. Protesters attack government buildings and the state broadcaster. The government imposes an internet blackout. At least 32 are killed.

- July 21: The Supreme Court rules the reintroduction of job quotas illegal but does not meet all protester demands. Critics view the court as aligned with Hasina’s government.

- August 4: Former army chief General Ikbal Karim Bhuiyan calls for troop withdrawal and condemns the violence. Current army chief Waker-uz-Zaman expresses support for the people. Leaders call for a "final protest" march in Dhaka.

-Protesters wielded sticks and knives, while security forces responded with live ammunition. Significant violence included attacks on police stations, particularly in Enayetpur, where 11 officers were killed.

-United Nations' human rights chief, Volker Turk, has condemned the violence, calling for an end to attacks on peaceful protesters, restoration of full internet access, and meaningful dialogue. Turk pressed the need for accountability for human rights violations and the cessation of excessive force.

The government has imposed nationwide mobile internet restrictions amid the escalating violence. The protests, initially focused on job quotas, have transformed into a significant challenge to Hasina’s long-standing rule, with growing calls for political change.