Protesters in Bangladesh Demand Removal of PM Hasina

 

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Protests in Bangladesh Escalate: Demanding for Prime Minister's Resignation Amid Discontent and Economic Problems

Tensions in Bangladesh have reached at a boiling point as the opposition party supporters took to the streets demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. 

Protests led by the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) have intensified due to the clashes between demonstrators and police in the Bengali capital, Dhaka. 

The opposition's call for a neutral caretaker government for the upcoming elections and growing discontent over the cost of living have fueled and intensified public anger. 

The strict response of the government to protests has drawn criticism from international rights groups, raising concerns about freedom of expression and political dissent in the country.

Protests and Clashes Engulf Dhaka

In recent days, the streets of Dhaka are witnessing intense clashes between opposition supporters and law enforcement officers. 

The BNP's demands for the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and a neutral caretaker government for the upcoming elections have garnered significant support. 

However, the demonstrations have alos turned violent, with protesters setting fire to buses and resorting to petrol bombs, while police responded with rubber bullets and tear gas. 

The situation remains tense as both sides are bracing for further confrontations. 

BNP's Leadership

The BNP's protests come at a time when the party is facing internal challenges due to its leader Khaleda Zia's imprisonment on corruption charges since 2018. 

Despite of the absence of a strong leadership the party's supporters has not deterred from rallying against the government. 

Recent protest rallies have drawn tens of thousands of people, reflecting widespread discontent over the cost of living and accusations of fraudulent elections in 2014 and 2018.

Police Action and Criticism from the Human Rights Groups

In response to the protests, the police have come under scrutiny and criticism for their heavy-handed tactics. 

At least 20 officers were injured during the clashes, and dozens of protesters were reportedly hurt. 

Human rights groups and Western governments have criticized the government for stifling dissent and curbing the right to protest in Bangladesh. 

Amnesty International's Yasasmin Kaviratne called on the police to exercise restraint and allow people the freedom to express their political views peacefully.

Government Response to the Protesters and Opposition

Senior BNP leader Abdul Moyeen Khan denounced the police action as an "injustice" and accused the ruling regime of seeking to retain power through a rigged election. 

On the other hand, Awami League member of parliament Tanvir Shakil Joy defended the police response, citing instances of violence and bus torching by protesters. 

The government maintains that it had explicitly forbidden any political party from blocking the main entry points to the capital. 

Prime Minister Hasina's Autocratic and Authoritarian Image

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who has been in power since 2009, has faced accusations of autocracy, authoritarianism, human rights violations, and suppressing dissent. 

Her critics alleged that her government has cracked down on free speech and stifled political opposition. 

The current protests further underscore serious concerns about democratic governance and respect for political pluralism in Bangladesh. 

Economic Struggles and Rising Discontent among Masses

The ongoing protests reflect deep-seated discontent among ordinary citizens over the rising cost of living. 

Spiraling food prices have become a significant concern for many Bangladeshis.

It has become increasingly difficult for them to afford essential commodities. 

This economic strain has added fuel to the fire of public anger, leading to larger and more frequent protests across the country. 

Uncertainty in Political Future

As the protests continue, Bangladesh faces an uncertain political future. 

The opposition's demands for the Prime Minister's resignation and a neutral caretaker government signal a growing desire for political change. 

However, the government's firm grip on power and its response to dissent make it challenging for opposition parties to effect significant changes through protests alone. 

The country's stability and democratic principles are at stake as both sides navigate a delicate balance between political expression and maintaining public and political order.

(Courtesy: Al-Jazeera)