Image Credits: France 24
Protesters stormed the residences of the popular Awami League leaders, the party of ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Media reports and social media posts showed protesters breaking into and looting homes, including that of former home minister Asaduzzaman Khan.
The protests began last month at Dhaka University and quickly gained momentum after Sheikh Hasina resigned and was announced to leave the country. Thousands of protesters gathered on the university campus, dancing and chanting slogans against Sheikh Hasina and her government. The movement gained momentum, spreading to different parts of Dhaka and other parts of Bangladesh.
The protesters, fueled by anger and frustration over longstanding grievances, targeted the offices and residences of Awami League leaders, causing widespread destruction and chaos. Reports indicate that several homes were ransacked, valuables looted and property vandalized. The unrest reflects deep discontent with Hasina’s leadership and the Awami League’s management.
Witnesses described chaotic scenes as protesters entered homes, smashing windows and doors. “We are fed up with their corruption and mismanagement,” said one protester, who declined to be named. “This is just the beginning. We want justice to be served and those responsible for these years of suffering to be held accountable.”
The situation has put law enforcement on high alert. Despite efforts to control the crowds, police are still struggling to prevent the unrest from spreading. Clashes between protesters and security forces have been reported, with tear gas and water cannon deployed to disperse demonstrators. Several injuries have been reported on both sides, although the exact number is yet to be determined.
The political unrest follows months of mounting pressure on the Hasina government, with allegations of corruption, human rights abuses and economic mismanagement dominating public discourse. Hasina’s resignation and exile mark a significant shift in Bangladesh’s political landscape, leaving the future uncertain.