Bangladesh Marks One Year Since Hasina’s Ouster With Rallies and Reform Hopes

 

Thousands of people filled the streets of Dhaka on Tuesday to commemorate one year since the protests that led to the ousting of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. The anniversary was marked with rallies, concerts, and prayer sessions, drawing supporters from across the country. The movement, originally ignited by economic hardship and political repression, culminated in Hasina’s departure to India and the rise of a student-led uprising that brought Nobel peace laureate Muhammad Yunus to power as interim leader.

Yunus addressed the nation, pledging a roadmap for democratic reforms and a transparent election by early next year. He paid tribute to those killed in the 2024 protests and warned that remnants of the old regime still pose threats to progress. Massive crowds near parliament held placards and waved flags, while security remained tight, with armoured vehicles patrolling Dhaka to prevent disruption from Hasina’s now-banned Awami League party.

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Muhammad Yunus promised that his interim government is committed to building a new democratic future, as he prepares to unveil the July Declaration, a document expected to outline reforms and officially recognise the 2024 uprising. He claimed major political parties, including the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), back the declaration, which is seen by supporters as a historic step toward institutional reform and transparent governance.

However, public sentiment remains mixed. Some citizens expressed pride and hope, while others, like student activist Sabbir Ahmed, remain skeptical about the country’s democratic future. Critics warn that without a legal framework or parliamentary approval, the declaration may carry more symbolic than practical weight.

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In a surprise twist, Hasina released an open letter declaring she had never resigned and vowed to return, calling on citizens to unite for a stronger Bangladesh. Despite her statement, Yunus’s government continues to press forward with reforms and trials related to the “July killings” that shook the nation last year.