Chief of Army Staff (CAS) General Waker-Uz-Zaman, during a national address on Monday afternoon stated that Awami League President Sheikh Hasina has stepped down from her role as the prime minister of Bangladesh.
The uncontested cabinet has been dissolved and many apparent leaders have fled the country along with their leader.
Bedecked with medal ribbons on his green fatigues and wearing a four-star general's cap, Waker said that the army would "form an interim government" to ensure the continued governance and stability of the country.
The army chief stated, “The country is currently in a transitional phase. I invited leaders from all political parties, and we engaged in productive discussions. It was agreed that an interim government will be established to oversee the nation's affairs during this period.
“We will consult with the president regarding the formation of this interim government. Following our discussions, the country will be managed under this new interim administration.”
"I give you my word that all the injustices will be addressed," the career infantry officer said in a broadcast to the nation on television, although it was not immediately clear if he would head the new government.
"The country has suffered a lot, the economy has been hit, many people have been killed -- it is time to stop the violence," the officer said as he urged faith in the armed forces.
"We take full responsibility. I assure you, do not be disheartened. We will meet all your demands and restore peace in the country. We need your support."
Urging the public to avoid vandalism, violence, and conflict, the army boss said, "If you follow our guidance and work with us, we will undoubtedly achieve a positive outcome. Fighting and conflict will bring us nothing. So please, refrain from all acts of destruction, chaos, and violence. Let us move towards a beautiful future together.”
“Every single act of murder and injustice will be accounted for… Be patient, give us time. We will solve all problems together,” he urged.
In response to a question regarding how many members will be in the interim government, the army chief said, “It is still very early. It will be decided through discussion. We will try to solve it by night. Otherwise we may need a day or two.”
When asked who participated in the discussions, General Waker-Uz-Zaman responded, "The discussions included the Amir of Jamaat, senior leaders of BNP, Jatiya Party, and representatives from civil society. However, no one from the Awami League was present due to the limited time available. Those we could reach in time, such as Jonaid Saki and Professor Asif Nazrul, were present."
Mentioning Asif Nazrul, the army chief said that he [Asif Nazrul] conveyed a message to the students, expressing hope that they would remain calm. "Asif Nazrul sent a positive message to the students in my presence.
"Now the task of the students is to keep calm and help us," he said.
Emphasising the army's commitment to maintaining peace and order, the army chief said, "It is everyone's responsibility to help the army. If the situation remains calm, there is no need for a curfew or state of emergency.
“I have ordered that there will be no firing; neither the army nor the police will discharge any shots. We are optimistic that the situation will improve following this statement," he said as he urged the protesting students to go back home.
