Bangladesh: Sheikh Hasina’s Family Residence Targeted Amid Rising Unrest
Violence continues to escalate in Bangladesh, with demonstrators vandalizing and setting fire to the former family residence of deposed Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.
The residence, which holds historical significance as the home of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the founder of the country, was attacked by a group of young people. The incident was captured on video, which has since gone viral online.
The unrest follows Hasina’s announcement while addressing from India. Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, Hasina’s late father and the founding president of Bangladesh, is celebrated as a national hero, but Hasina’s leadership has been met with increasing backlash. Critics have pointed to her authoritarian rule and the economic challenges facing the nation.
Read More: Protesters Burn House of Former Cricket Captain in Bangladesh
Destruction of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s Historic House
The iconic house, now converted into a museum, was destroyed by an excavator, adding fuel to the ongoing protests. In a Facebook livestream, Hasina condemned the attack, stating, “They can demolish a building, but they can’t erase history.”
As tensions flare, around 700 protesters gathered at the site, some targeting properties owned by senior members of Hasina’s Awami League party. The unrest has also affected properties tied to key figures within her political circle.
Political Crisis and Growing Backlash
Bangladesh’s caretaker government, led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, is struggling with the rising violence and economic issues while planning national elections for late 2025 or early 2026. The protests initially began over dissatisfaction with a government job quota system and quickly escalated into violent clashes, with dozens of fatalities.
Last year, Sheikh Hasina resigned after weeks of violent protests, marking the end of her over 20-year rule. Following her resignation, President Shahabuddin announced the release of detained opposition leaders and plans for an interim government. Supporters of Hasina highlight her economic achievements, while critics continue to focus on her authoritarian governance style.
