05 Aug 2024 | 02:33 PM UTC
Bangladesh: As of Aug. 5, nationwide protests likely to continue through mid-August following prime minister's resignation /update 18
As of Aug. 5, further protests, tensions likely across Bangladesh through mid-August following prime minister's resignation.
Further protests and demonstrations are likely across Bangladesh through mid-August after the Chief of Army Staff, General Waker-Uz-Zaman, confirmed Aug. 5 that Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has resigned and left the country. He further stated an interim government will run the country. The developments occurred after student activists occupied the prime minister's official residence (Ganabhaban) during a large-scale protest march to Dhaka, despite an ongoing nationwide curfew.
As of the evening of Aug. 5, significant numbers of protesters remain on the streets, particularly in Dhaka; however, there have been no reports of significant clashes. The military has urged protesters to return to their homes but has stated they will not use violence to force participants to do so. Hasin'a resignation comes after violent protests over the weekend that killed more than 90 people and injured hundreds of others.
Security Measures
Ongoing security measures may persist, including a ban on public gatherings in Dhaka. Authorities imposed a total shutdown of mobile and broadband internet services, though sources late Aug. 5 indicate mobile services are gradually resuming. An indefinite curfew was in effect nationwide until further notice, though its status following Hasina's resignation is unclear.
Transport Disruptions
The country's borders remain open. Officials have suspended operations at Dhaka's Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (DAC) and Sylhet's Osmani International Airport (ZYL) 17:30-22:30 Aug. 5 amid ongoing nationwide unrest; extensions are possible.
Additional domestic and international flights are likely in the coming days due to security concerns and reduced demand, especially at DAC. Some carriers, like Emirates (EK) and Flydubai (FZ), have revised flight schedules, while Air India has indefinitely suspended services to and from DAC effective Aug. 5. Additional flight disruptions, including delays and cancellations, could occur.
Business and utility disruptions
Authorities have declared a three-day general holiday until Aug. 7, with possible extensions if unrest persists.
The unrest has led countries like Australia, Canada, the US, and the UK to advise against all or nonessential travel to Bangladesh until further notice. Diplomatic facilities, including the US Embassy, may announce suspensions or curtailment of services, especially in response to planned or ongoing large rallies.
Remain in a secure location until the situation stabilizes. Avoid all public gatherings due to the potential for increased violence. Depart the area at the first sign of any security disturbance. Confirm ground transport and flight arrangements before departure; do not check out of accommodations without confirming onward travel. Do not attempt to navigate any roadblocks, as protesters could attack vehicles. Plan accordingly for business disruptions. Heed all official instructions, including curfew orders, security and traffic advisories. Maintain contact with diplomatic representations.
Student protests in Bangladesh, initially sparked by demands to abolish government job quotas, have escalated into a broader uprising against former prime minister Sheikh Hasina's government. Since early July, widespread violent unrest has occurred across major cities, particularly Dhaka, despite a Supreme Court ruling that ended most job quotas. The government’s harsh crackdown, including nationwide curfews, internet shutdowns, military deployment, and the use of force, has failed to quell the demonstrations. Reports indicate that more than 300 people have died, and thousands have been injured.
On Aug. 5, Hasina resigned and fled the country amid mounting pressure, marking the end of her 15-year rule after protesters stormed the prime minister's official residence. Further political instability and unrest are likely in the coming weeks as parties and the military attempt to address the political vacuum and form a new government.
