Sheikh Hasina Calls for Justice, Observes National Mourning Day

Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina urges proper investigation into July's violence and vandalism. She encourages citizens to honor National Mourning Day on August 15. Public discontent surrounds her apparent resignation and ensuing protests. Hasina expresses sorrow over disrespect to national history and leaders.

In her first statement since her apparent resignation, deposed Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has demanded a thorough investigation into the violence and vandalism that occurred in July. She stressed that the culprits must be identified and brought to justice. Hasina also called on people to observe National Mourning Day on August 15 with dignity and solemnity, encouraging them to pray for the salvation of souls by offering floral garlands at Bangabandhu Bhaban.

Sajeeb Wazed Joy, Hasina's son, released the statement on her behalf through social media platform X. He highlighted the loss of lives due to recent unrest and emphasized Bangladesh's respected status among developing countries. He lamented that this honor has been tarnished by the violence. 'My condolences to those like me who are living with the pain of losing a loved one. I demand that those involved in these killings and vandalism be properly investigated and the culprits be identified and punished accordingly,' her statement read.

Sheikh Hasina expressed deep sorrow over the disrespect shown to Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the Father of the Nation. 'Despite bearing the pain of losing loved ones, I have been working tirelessly to bring smiles to the faces of the distressed people of Bangladesh,' she said, adding that this is an insult to the martyrs who fought for the nation's freedom.

Amid a volatile political landscape, Sheikh Hasina's apparent resignation as Prime Minister on August 5 has led to mounting protests, primarily driven by students demanding an end to the government job quota system. These protests have evolved into broader anti-government demonstrations.

(With inputs from agencies.)