Bangladesh Army Chief Waker-Uz-Zaman announced Monday the formation of an interim government following the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who fled the capital amid overwhelming protests.
In a televised address to the nation, General Waker-Uz-Zaman, dressed in military fatigues, declared, “I am taking full responsibility,” although it was not immediately clear if he would head a caretaker government.
“We will form an interim government. The country has suffered a lot, the economy has been hit, and many people have been killed — it is time to stop the violence.
“I hope after my speech, the situation will improve,” Waker said.
General Waker mentioned that he would consult with the president to establish the interim government. He had already engaged in discussions with main opposition parties and civil society members, excluding Hasina’s Awami League.
“If the situation gets better, there is no need for emergency,” he said, vowing the new authorities would “prosecute all murders” following weeks of deadly protests.
He added, “Now the task of the students is to keep calm and help us.”
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General Waker, a career infantry officer, has nearly four decades of military experience, including two tours as a United Nations peacekeeper and service in the prime minister’s office. He was appointed as the Chief of Army Staff earlier this year.
AFP
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