Demonstrators demand President Shahabuddin’s resignation in ongoing political unrest.
Bangladesh is witnessing a new wave of unrest as protesters, led by a student movement, have targeted the Presidential Palace, calling for the resignation of President Mohammed Shahabuddin.
The protests, which began over student grievances, have now expanded into a broader call for governmental reform.
On Tuesday, protesters gathered at the central Shaheed Minar in Dhaka, where they made a five-point demand, including the resignation of President Shahabuddin.
The demonstrators marched towards the Presidential Palace, Bana Bhaban, only to be met with army barricades.
However, they stood firm outside the palace, chanting slogans and calling for the President to step down.
Roots of the Student Movement
Initially sparked by students demanding an end to the government job quota system, the movement has now morphed into a full-scale anti-government protest.
Students have called for the abolition of the 1972 constitution and the creation of a new one reflecting modern-day Bangladesh.
They have also demanded the banning of the Awami League’s student organization, Bangladesh Chatra League, and declared the elections held under Sheikh Hasina in 2014, 2018, and 2024 illegal.
Political Fallout
The intensifying protests led to the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on August 5, who fled to India amid growing unrest.
In response, an interim government was formed under the leadership of Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus, who was sworn in on August 8 as the head of the interim government.
The protesters, however, continue to press for further reforms, focusing on the resignation of the president.
