The resignation and subsequent flight of Bangladesh’s former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina amidst violent street protests have sparked reactions from around the globe.
In Whitechapel, London, a neighborhood with a significant Bangladeshi population, the streets were filled with celebrants waving flags and honking car horns, chanting, “Bangladesh! Bangladesh!”
“Bangladesh has achieved its second independence now,” said Abu Sayem, 50. “We got our independence first in 1971, but Sheikh Hasina ruled forcibly. She took away our rights and killed thousands of children.”
Cab driver Ishtiaque Choudhury expressed his relief, saying, “It is a relief for us, and I’m happy for my nation.”
Tarique Rahman, the exiled acting chairman of the opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party, commented, “Hasina’s resignation proves the power of the people. Together, let’s rebuild Bangladesh into a democratic and developed nation, where the rights and freedoms of all people are protected,” Rahman posted on X.
Sheikh Hasina’s resignation proves the power of the people and will be an example for generations to come, showing how the courage of the people can overpower atrocities.
Congratulations to the students and protesters from all sections of society. Their selfless sense of justice… pic.twitter.com/NJwIe8ACE8
— Tarique Rahman (@trahmanbnp) August 5, 2024
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Ali Sabry, Sri Lanka’s foreign minister, expressed hope for Bangladesh, stating, “We believe in the resilience and unity of the Bangladeshi nation and hope for a swift return to peace and stability. May the people of Bangladesh find the strength to overcome these challenges and emerge even stronger.”
Our hearts are with the people of #Bangladesh during these incredibly challenging times. The recent events have led to significant unrest and, tragically, the loss of many lives. We extend our deepest sympathies to the families of those affected and to all who are suffering…
— M U M Ali Sabry (@alisabrypc) August 5, 2024
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US Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer condemned Hasina’s reaction to the protests, saying, “PM Hasina’s violent reaction to legitimate protests made her continued rule untenable.”
“I applaud the brave protestors and demand justice for those killed. It’s critical to establish a balanced interim government that respects the rights of all and sets up democratic elections swiftly. PM Hasina’s violent reaction to legitimate protests made her continued rule untenable. I applaud the brave protestors & demand justice for those killed.”
It’s critical to establish a balanced interim government that respects the rights of all & sets up democratic elections swiftly https://t.co/cUpqacR8jX
— Chuck Schumer (@SenSchumer) August 5, 2024
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Meanwhile, a German Foreign Ministry spokesperson emphasized the importance of democracy, stating: “It is important that Bangladesh continue on its democratic path.”
(with imputes from agencies)
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