Brussels 05.08.2024 The European Union is closely monitoring the events unfolding in Bangladesh. (Image above: illustration)

“Following the address to the nation by Chief of Army Staff, General Waker-Uz-Zaman, the EU calls for calm and restraint. It is vital that an orderly and peaceful transition towards a democratically elected government is ensured, in full respect of human rights and democratic principles” reads the statement by the High Representative of the EU Josep Borrell on the latest developments in Bangladesh.

“The EU is saddened by the tragic loss of life during the protests in recent days. We take note of the assurances given by General Waker-Uz-Zaman that the situation will be handled in a peaceful manner, and that all unlawful killings will be impartially investigated. Accountability for human rights violations is crucial. Those who have been arbitrarily detained should be released immediately.

“As a dedicated partner of the people of Bangladesh, the EU remains committed to the country’s prosperity and development”.

Today the Prime minister of Bangladesh, Sheikh Hasina, resigned after weeks of deadly anti-government protests spread along the South Asian nation.

The announcement from Bangladesh’s army chief, General Waker-uz-Zaman, addressed protesters storming the official residence of the Prime minister in the capital, Dhaka.

Images showed flames billowing from vehicles near Hasina’s house, with police unable to contain droves of people charging toward the neighborhood. Scenes also emerged of people clambering atop an imposing statue of Hasina’s father, independence leader Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, in Dhaka, and carving away at the head with an axe, according to CNN.