Sheikh Hasina, the Prime Minister, has left Bangladesh and her position after protesters drove her from her residence. Protesters in Bangladesh have been demonstrating for weeks over the corrupt policies in place and the fact that Hasina has clung to power and her position for decades through corrupt elections. Students and the people have been fighting against oppressive laws, the most recent being government job positions given to people who participated in the war against Pakistan in 1971. Hundreds of Bangladeshis have died at the hands of police that were sent to end the protests but students did not stop demonstrating. They kept fighting until Hasina was finally ousted.
What is worrying is that the military is taking control, claiming that they will fill in as a temporary government until a new government can be selected. This selection of the new government must come from the people of Bangladesh and not from the military’s choice. This is the opportunity for reform and restructuring so that the needs of Bangladeshis are met and progress can be made.
Right now there is such amazing opportunity for the people’s voice to be heard and maintained. This gives me such hope that there are people on this planet who will fight for their freedom and not give up until the oppressor is purged.
What must not occur is for another oppressor to take that place because there is a void and oppressor’s take advantage of these voids. It is a chance for freedom and human rights to triumph, but it is also a time for manipulators to enter the picture so they can gain power.
Thank you to the people of Bangladesh that fought without giving into fear and showing the world what it is to fight for freedom. You did not give up and you did not cower to the violence. You united together and together you overcame the oppressor.
Bangladesh has my deepest admiration and gratitude. Their dedication, their fight, their perseverance have given me hope during one of the bleakest moments in history. To that, the people of Bangladesh have my heart.
May your world and future forever be in your hands.
May the whole world be free.
Protest
Never give up your rights
Strike
BE UNGOVERNABLE
Disrupt everything
Vote 3rd party
Boycott
Donate
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Articles for reference. Please read and share.
Reuters: Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina flees, army says interim government to be formed
Reuters: Explainer: Why are Bangladesh students protesting against job quotas?
Al Jazeera: The victory of Bangladesh’s student movement should not surprise anyone
Economist: Bangladesh’s dictator flees- leaving behind a dangerous vacuum