In a significant political development, Army Chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman announced on Monday that Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has resigned, and an interim government will be formed shortly to steer the country through its current crisis.

The announcement came after a meeting between the army chief and leaders of key political parties. In a speech following the discussions, General Waker-Uz-Zaman stated, “We had a nice discussion where we have decided that we will form an interim government.”

He emphasised that the interim government would oversee all national activities, pledging to engage with the President to facilitate its formation.

Simultaneously, Md. Nahid Islam, coordinator of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, declared that the outline for the interim national government would be crafted within the next 24 hours. Speaking at a press conference in Tejgaon, he dedicated the uprising to the "martyred students and people," emphasizing the movement's commitment to justice and reform.

Call for Cooperation and Peace

General Waker-Uz-Zaman urged all parties and citizens to refrain from violence and cooperate with the new governmental framework. “Please cooperate with me. Kindly refrain from any more vandalism, killings, and clashes,” he appealed, stressing that the path to progress lies in unity and peace.

The army chief assured the public of his commitment to justice and safety, stating, “I am giving you my word, we will ensure justice for all killings and injustice. Keep faith in the army and armed forces. I am taking all the responsibilities – safety of your life and properties.”

The meeting at the army headquarters was attended by prominent figures, including BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, Jatiya Party Chairman GM Quader, and other leaders from various political and religious groups, such as Hefazat-e-Islam Bangladesh and Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami. Dhaka University Law Professor Dr. Asif Nazrul also participated, calling on students to remain calm and hopeful for peaceful resolution.

General Waker-Uz-Zaman reassured that if peace is restored, there would be no need to impose a curfew, and the army would continue its efforts to maintain peace and discipline. He expressed optimism that his address would improve the situation and foster a cooperative environment for transitioning to the interim government.

Concluding his remarks, the army chief called for patience and collaboration: “Have patience. Give us some time. Together, we will be able to solve all the problems.” 

He acknowledged the substantial damage and loss of life, urging everyone to desist from further destruction and assist in restoring stability.

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