Sheikh Hasina, the Prime Minister of Bangladesh, faced a sudden end to her 15-year rule as protesters stormed her palace in Dhaka. Despite leading the country to economic growth, her tenure was marred by mass arrests of political opponents and human rights violations by security forces. The protests initially began over civil service job quotas but quickly escalated into demands for her resignation.
Hasina, known for rescuing Bangladesh from military rule, won her fifth term in a controversial election but critics accused her government of rights abuses, including the murder of opposition activists. Despite her promises to transform Bangladesh into a prosperous nation, millions of young Bangladeshis remain unemployed.
Hasina’s rule also saw a violent crackdown on militants in the aftermath of a deadly attack on a Dhaka cafe. However, her intolerance of dissent led to international concern and sanctions on Bangladesh’s security forces. The trials of Islamist leaders and opposition figures for crimes during the 1971 liberation war were met with protests and accusations of political motivations.
Despite the challenges and criticisms, Hasina’s leadership saw Bangladesh’s economy grow significantly, lifting millions out of poverty and improving access to electricity. However, her legacy is marred by a legacy of silencing dissent and human rights abuses.