Bangladesh PM Hasina resigns, reportedly flees in face of protests

Bangladesh’s military announced on Monday Sheikh Hasina stepped down after protests against her government left scores dead.

Media in Bangladesh report that Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has fled the country after more than 90 people are dead after renewed protests on Sunday.

Students took to the streets last month, calling on the government to abolish the quota. At least 200 people are believed to have died across the country in clashes with police. Authorities have reportedly fired tear gas and rubber bullets at the crowds.

Demonstrators demanded Hasina’s resignation after her government said it planned to reinstate quotas for public-sector jobs.

Recall a high court decision in June ignited a series of protests. The court revived a system that reserved many of those coveted jobs for the families of so-called freedom fighters who fought for independence from Pakistan in 1971.

At least 200 people are believed to have died across the country in clashes with police. Authorities have reportedly fired tear gas and rubber bullets at the crowds.

Students and others are criticizing the administration of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, saying police have used excessive force to quell the protests. But the administration is accusing opposition parties of being behind the demonstrations.