“Any government other than the one we recommended would not be accepted,” said Nahid Islam, one of the key student protest leaders, in a video message on Facebook. She was flanked by three other organisers.
Earlier, Bangladesh’s army chief reportedly met protest leaders amid calls for fresh elections and the formation of a new government.
Sheikh Hasina resigns
Interim govt in Bangladesh
Hours after her resignation, Bangladesh Army Chief Waker-Uz-Zaman had announced to “form an interim government” to run the country’s affairs.
“I am taking full responsibility,” the army chief said, dressed in military fatigues and cap, although it was not immediately clear if he would head an interim government.
Read more: Bangladesh’s Army Chief Announces To Form Interim Government
“We will form an interim government,” the general said in a broadcast to the nation on state television, adding that Sheikh Hasina had resigned.
He said the country had suffered a lot, the economy had been hit, and many people had been killed — it was time to stop the violence.
The army chief expressed hope that after his speech, the situation will improve.
Khaled Zia released
Later in the day, President Shahabuddin ordered the release of jailed ex-prime minister and top opposition leader Khaleda Zia.
Read more: Bangladesh President Orders Release of Khaleda Zia
A press release from the President’s Office said the “meeting held unanimously decided to release Bangladesh National Party (BNP) Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia.
“Additionally, it was decided to release all detainees who were arrested in various cases related to the student against discrimination movement and recent incidents. There was also a strong consensus to ensure that communal harmony is not disrupted in any way,” the presser issued in the Bangla language added.
