Protests in Bangladesh Lead to Demolition of Ex-Prime Minister's Family Home

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In a dramatic escalation of political unrest, thousands of protesters in Bangladesh destroyed the family home of exiled former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in Dhaka. The site, historically significant as the place where Hasina’s father, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, declared the country's independence from Pakistan in 1971, has become a target amid allegations of authoritarianism against Hasina, who fled the country during a violent student uprising last year.

The unrest was triggered by a speech delivered by Hasina from India, where she is currently in exile. In response to claims of suppressing dissent during her 15-year rule, critics have intensified their attacks on symbols of her leadership. Protesters threatened to "bulldoze" the house if she proceeded with her speech, which marked the start of a political campaign by her Awami League party.

During the demolition, Hasina condemned the actions, stating, “They may destroy a building, but they won’t be able to erase the history.” As the interim government led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus faces rising tensions, allegations of widespread corruption and human rights abuses continue to mount, drawing international attention.

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