Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina Steps Down Following Violent Protests

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has reportedly resigned and left the country following weeks of violent protests. Multiple reports suggest that Sheikh Hasina, who has ruled Bangladesh since 2009, fled in a helicopter on Monday as thousands of protesters stormed her official residence in Dhaka. An interim government is expected to be formed in the South Asian nation. 

The recent protests were the most serious challenge the 76-year-old Sheikh Hasina faced since taking office. The protests began as students demanded an end to a quota system for government jobs. The protests turned violent after clashes between protesters and police and pro-government activists. The demonstrations later turned into an uprising against Sheikh Hasina, the longtime leader of the country.

At least 300 people were killed, and nearly 11,000 have been arrested in Bangladesh since the protest began in July. Earlier, several have severely criticised Hasina's government and said that the country's previous economic success only helped those close to Sheikh Hasina’s Awami League due to endemic corruption. Critics also say that Bangladesh's progress has come at the cost of democracy and human rights, reported the BBC. Notably, Sheikh Hasina was elected for a fourth consecutive term in a January vote that was boycotted by the Opposition.