Bangladesh PM Hasina quits, flees as protestors storm palace

Bangladesh’s Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has reportedly resigned and fled the country amid escalating protests, according to local media reports.

The longtime leader has allegedly boarded a helicopter bound for India after demonstrators defied a national curfew and stormed the prime minister’s palace in Dhaka.

Longtime leader departs amid unrest

Hasina, who has been in power for years, faced mounting pressure as protests intensified across the country. The unrest, marked by widespread demonstrations and civil disobedience, culminated in an unprecedented breach of the prime minister’s residence.

Close to 300 people have died amid weeks of protests that authorities have sought to crush. Following a night of deadly violence that killed nearly 100 people on Sunday, tensions remained high as protestors called for a march on Dhaka and the army prepared to address the nation.

Despite a national curfew imposed to curb the protests, thousands of demonstrators gathered outside the palace in Dhaka. The situation escalated as protestors forced their way into the residence, prompting Hasina to flee.

Immediate aftermath and uncertainty

Reports indicate that Hasina’s departure was swift, with sources claiming she left the palace in a helicopter. Her destination is believed to be India, though further details on her exact whereabouts remain unclear. The sudden resignation and flight have left the country in a state of uncertainty, with questions about the next steps for Bangladesh’s leadership and governance.

Bangladesh Chief of Army Staff General Waker-Uz-Zaman canceled his planned address to the nation and is currently holding talks with major political parties, including the opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP). The discussions are aimed at navigating the political crisis and ensuring stability in the wake of Hasina’s departure.