Thousands of protesters took to the streets of Dhaka on Sunday, wielding sticks and chanting for Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to step down in response to a violent police crackdown. The protests, which have escalated into a nationwide civil disobedience campaign, reflect widespread discontent with Hasina’s 15-year rule.
Asif Mahmud, a prominent leader of the movement, urged supporters to prepare for further confrontations. “Prepare bamboo sticks and liberate Bangladesh,” he posted on Facebook, rallying his followers for ongoing protests.
The army has stepped in to restore order following the recent violence, which claimed over 200 lives. Former military officers, including ex-army chief General Ikbal Karim Bhuiyan, have shown support for the protests, with Bhuiyan changing his Facebook profile to a red hue as a gesture of solidarity.
Current Army Chief Waker-uz-Zaman addressed military personnel on Saturday, emphasizing that the army remains a symbol of public trust and is committed to supporting the people and the state. However, the statement did not clarify whether the army explicitly supports the protests.
The initial trigger for the unrest was a controversial job quota system for civil service positions, but the protests have since evolved into a broader anti-government movement. Demonstrations have attracted diverse participants, including celebrities, musicians, and ordinary citizens. Rap songs and social media campaigns have amplified the call for change.
“We want our next generation to live freely in this country,” said Sakhawat, a young protester who voiced her demands through graffiti and public demonstrations.
In response to the growing movement, Obaidul Quader, general secretary of Hasina’s ruling Awami League, has called on party members to show support for the government through counter-protests. Despite these countermeasures, the atmosphere in Dhaka remains tense, with a noticeable decrease in traffic and increased police presence.
Students Against Discrimination, the group behind the original protests, have called for nationwide rallies, including at major entry points to Dhaka and central Shahbagh Square. The group is urging citizens to halt payment of taxes and utility bills and to strike from government jobs and garment factories.
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who has governed Bangladesh since 2009, won her fourth consecutive term in January’s election, which was marred by allegations of vote rigging and a lack of genuine opposition. Her administration faces accusations of using state power to suppress dissent, including allegations of extrajudicial killings of opposition figures.
Sources By Agencies