Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has resigned and fled the country following intense protests.

 Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina departed in a military helicopter. Protests had escalated, with crowds defying a national curfew to storm the prime minister’s palace in Dhaka.

Nearly 300 people have died in the weeks of unrest, with authorities struggling to quell the protests. On Sunday night, deadly violence claimed close to 100 lives, leading to heightened tension on Monday as protesters planned a march on Dhaka. The army was on high alert, preparing to address the nation.

PHOTO | COURTESY Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina

By early afternoon, reports emerged of a celebratory mood on the streets after news of Hasina’s departure spread. General Waker-Uz-Zaman, Chief of Army Staff, confirmed Hasina's resignation in a national address, stating that an interim government would take over.

He urged citizens to trust the army to restore peace and promised justice for the deaths and crimes during the protests. General Waker-Uz-Zaman called on the public to remain patient and avoid violence and vandalism. He also announced that representatives from all major political parties had agreed to collaborate with the interim government.