13 August 2024: A murder case has been filed against Sheikh Hasina, the recently ousted Prime Minister of Bangladesh, and six other individuals in connection with the death of a grocery store owner during violent clashes last month. The incident occurred amid widespread protests against Hasina’s government, leading to her resignation and flight to India last week, according to multiple reports.
This marks the first case against Hasina, 76, following her departure from office. The case was lodged by a supporter of Abu Sayed, the grocery store owner who was fatally shot by police on July 19 during a pro-quota reform demonstration in Mohammadpur, as reported by Dhaka Tribune.
The other accused include prominent figures from the Awami League, such as General Secretary Obaidul Quader, former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal, and former Inspector General of Police Chowdhury Abdullah Al Mamun. Several unnamed high-ranking police and government officials are also named.
The violence that ensued after the collapse of Hasina’s government on August 5 has claimed over 230 lives across Bangladesh, with the total death toll rising to 560 since the protests began in mid-July.
Following the government’s fall, an interim administration was established, led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus as Chief Adviser. Yunus has formed a 16-member council of advisers to navigate the country through this turbulent period.
On Monday, seven political parties, including the Awami League’s main rival, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), held separate meetings with Yunus. They expressed their support for the interim government and agreed to provide the necessary time to establish a conducive environment for free and fair elections. BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir stated that they had not discussed specific timelines for the upcoming elections.
The BNP reportedly urged Yunus to withdraw cases against its leaders, including party chairperson Khaleda Zia and acting chairman Tarique Rahman.
This developing situation continues to draw international attention as Bangladesh navigates its most significant political upheaval in recent history.
