Khaleda Zia Released as Sheikh Hasina Flees Bangladesh

Khaleda Zia’s Release: Major Political Shake-Up in Bangladesh

In a dramatic turn of events, Bangladesh’s President Mohammed Shahabuddin has ordered the immediate release of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia. This decision came shortly after Sheikh Hasina resigned from her position as Prime Minister and fled the country. The release of Khaleda Zia marks a significant shift in Bangladesh’s political landscape.

Background on Khaleda Zia and Sheikh Hasina

Khaleda Zia, the chairperson of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), has been imprisoned since 2018. She was sentenced to 17 years in prison on corruption charges. At 78 years old, Zia’s health has been deteriorating, and she has been receiving medical treatment in a hospital.

Zia and Sheikh Hasina, the leader of the Awami League, have been longstanding rivals. Their political rivalry, often referred to as the “Battle of Begums,” has been a defining feature of Bangladeshi politics for decades. Hasina first became Prime Minister in 1996, and since then, the two leaders have alternated in power, polarizing the country’s political scene.

Sheikh Hasina’s Resignation and Departure

Sheikh Hasina’s resignation ended her 15-year tenure as Prime Minister. The announcement of her resignation came amidst growing unrest in Bangladesh. As protesters stormed her residence in Dhaka and targeted the Parliament, Hasina fled the country. Her departure was confirmed when she landed at Hindon airbase near Delhi. She is currently staying in a secure location while she assesses her next steps.

Political Unrest and Student Protests

The unrest in Bangladesh has been escalating for weeks, with student protests against government job quotas intensifying. The protests have led to significant violence, including looting and vandalism at Hasina’s residence. The political turmoil has also prompted a security alert along the India-Bangladesh border, as the situation remains volatile.

Meeting and Decision to Release Zia

The decision to release Khaleda Zia was made during a meeting attended by Army Chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman, along with the heads of the navy and airforce, and top leaders from various opposition parties, including the BNP and Jamaat-e-Islami. The meeting also decided to release individuals arrested during the recent student protests.

Implications for Bangladesh

The release of Khaleda Zia and Sheikh Hasina’s departure signal a major shift in Bangladesh’s political landscape. As the country navigates through this period of instability, the future of its political dynamics remains uncertain. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been briefed on the situation, and the Border Security Force (BSF) has issued alerts in response to the rising tensions.

Stay tuned for updates as the situation develops and its impact on Bangladesh’s future unfolds.

Aakhir Tak Editor-in-Chief

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