Bangladesh president dissolves parliament, frees ex-PM

Bangladesh’s President Mohammed Shahabuddin on Tuesday dissolved the parliament, paving the way for the formation of an interim government.

The dissolution of the cabinet came a day after Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and fled the country following a violent crackdown on a student-led uprising.

A statement from the President’s office also said Hasina’s arch-rival, Begum Khaleda Zia, a former prime minister, had been freed from house arrest.

The statement added that the decision was taken following meetings with the heads of defence forces, leaders of political parties, student leaders, and some civil society representatives.

READ ALSO: 17 killed, 100 injured as explosions hit Bangladesh building

Student protesters had threatened more demonstrations if parliament was not dissolved.

Hasina’s flight on Monday ended her 15-year second stint in power.

She had ruled the country for 20 of the last 30 years, having inherited the political movement of her father, Mujubur Rahman, who was assassinated in 1975.

Bangladesh’s army chief, Gen. Waker-Uz-Zaman, was due to meet student leaders to discuss the formation of an interim government that is expected to hold elections soon after it takes over.

Zaman announced Hasina’s resignation on Monday.

Hasina flew to India and is staying at a safe house outside New Delhi.

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