Bangladesh Unrest: Parliament Dissolved; Interim Government Formation Begins

A day after Sheikh Hasina resigned as Prime Minister and departed Bangladesh, President Mohammed Shahabuddin announced the dissolution of Parliament to pave the way for an interim administration, according to Dhaka Tribune.

The decision followed a meeting with the heads of the armed forces, political leaders, civil society representatives, and leaders of the Students Against Discrimination movement. The president’s office confirmed the dissolution in a press release.

Additionally, Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Chairperson Khaleda Zia has been released from prison. The release process for individuals detained during the student protests from July 1 to August 5 has begun, with many already freed.

Khaleda Zia, 78, was previously imprisoned on corruption charges related to a trust fund. She has been in poor health and was recently granted release following a unanimous decision from President Shahabuddin’s meeting.

The political landscape in Bangladesh remains uncertain. Sheikh Hasina’s resignation followed intense protests demanding an end to the government job quota system. She arrived in India on August 5, with her next move unclear.

In response to the ongoing crisis, the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement has proposed Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus to lead the interim government, aiming to address the country’s challenges.