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In a new development following the ousting of Bangladesh’s prime minister, the Bangladesh Police Association announced Tuesday that its members would go on strike. This decision comes in the wake of violent protests that culminated in the prime minister’s resignation.
“Until the safety of every police officer is ensured, we are officially declaring a strike,” the statement from the Bangladesh Police Association read. The association, representing thousands of officers, also issued an apology for the force used against protesters.
On Monday afternoon, Bangladesh army chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman declared on state television that Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina had stepped down and that the military would establish an interim government. Hasina, 76, who had been in power since 2009, faced accusations of election rigging in January. This controversy sparked a massive movement, with millions demanding her resignation over the past month.
Despite the government’s harsh measures, including the use of deadly force that resulted in hundreds of deaths, the protests intensified. As the military withdrew its support, Hasina fled the country via helicopter on Monday.
While the military distanced itself from the embattled prime minister, the police force largely remained loyal to her administration. The police have reported facing retaliatory attacks from protesters following the month-long unrest, which saw at least 413 people killed, including several police officers.
“We deeply apologize for the actions taken against innocent students,” stated the Bangladesh Police Association. The association contended that its officers were “compelled to open fire” and have been unjustly portrayed as the “villain” in the conflict.
This police strike adds another layer of complexity to the already volatile situation in Bangladesh, as the nation grapples with a leadership vacuum and ongoing security challenges.
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