In a dramatic turn of events, Bangladesh’s long-time leader, Sheikh Hasina, abruptly fled the country amid escalating protests and a looming curfew. This article delves into how the refusal of the army to suppress the protests marked the beginning of the end for Hasina’s 15-year rule.
The Army’s Pivotal Decision
The night before Sheikh Hasina’s sudden departure, General Waker-Uz-Zaman, the chief of the Bangladesh army, convened a crucial meeting with his top generals. The key takeaway from this meeting was a decision not to use force against civilians enforcing a curfew, a move that ultimately led to Hasina’s downfall.
- General’s Message: General Waker-Uz-Zaman conveyed to Hasina’s office that the army could not implement the lockdown she had mandated.
- Significance: This decision was a clear indication that Hasina no longer had the military’s support, a critical factor in her sudden exit.
The Escalating Crisis
The nationwide curfew had been imposed following violent clashes that resulted in at least 91 deaths and hundreds of injuries. The unrest, sparked by protests against a controversial court ruling, had intensified, prompting Hasina to take drastic measures.
- Protest Triggers: Student-led protests erupted in July, initially against a court ruling affecting job reservations. These protests quickly escalated into broader anti-government demonstrations.
- Curfew Impact: The curfew aimed to restore order but instead highlighted the government’s waning control.
The Army’s Stance
In a series of developments that have not been previously reported:
- Army Discussions: Lt. Col. Sami Ud Dowla Chowdhury confirmed the discussions but declined to comment on specific decisions.
- General’s Address: On Saturday, General Zaman addressed his officers, emphasising the need to protect lives and show patience. This was the first indication that the army would not forcefully suppress the protests.
Hasina’s Departure
With the situation spiralling out of control, Hasina, 76, decided to flee the country on Monday. The timeline of her departure reflects the growing chaos:
- Decision to Flee: Faced with mounting pressure and protests, Hasina and her sister left Dhaka for India around lunchtime.
- Indian Involvement: Indian Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar revealed that India had been involved in urging dialogue throughout July. The decision to flee was made after a meeting with security leaders.
The Aftermath
Hasina’s departure was marked by significant developments:
- Arrival in India: A Bangladesh Air Force C130 transport aircraft arrived at Hindon air base outside Delhi, carrying Hasina. She was met by India’s National Security Advisor, Ajit Doval.
- Political Fallout: India’s diplomatic stance was cautious, with a second Indian official indicating that Hasina’s stay was to be temporary to avoid impacting future relations with Bangladesh’s next government.
The Broader Impact
The sudden end of Hasina’s rule has left several questions and concerns:
- Public Reaction: There is lingering resentment among some Bangladeshi veterans who feel Hasina should not have been granted safe passage.
- Future Implications: The departure could lead to shifts in Bangladesh’s political landscape, with Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus among those calling for a reassessment of foreign policies.
Conclusion
Sheikh Hasina’s unexpected flight from Bangladesh was a culmination of multiple factors, including the critical decision by the army not to enforce the curfew. This development highlights the complex interplay between political authority and military support, as well as the broader implications for Bangladesh’s future.
To stay updated on Bangladesh’s political changes and their global impact, keep following the latest news and analyses.
