Nearly 76% Backs Student Protests Leading to Hasina’s Resignation

The resignation of Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on August 5, 2024, marked a significant turning point in the country’s political landscape. After 15 years in power, Hasina stepped down amid intense public pressure, largely driven by student-led protests against her government’s policies and actions. This survey explores public opinion on Hasina’s resignation, the justification of the protests, and the potential future leadership of Bangladesh. The results reveal deep-seated dissatisfaction with Hasina’s rule and a strong desire for change among the populace.

Key Highlights

• 74.22% believe the student protest movement demanding Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s resignation was justified.
• Nearly 76% agree with the opposition’s statement that Hasina’s resignation ended 15 years of “authoritarian rule.”
• The appointment of Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus as the head of the interim government is supported by 75.5%

Debate Around Hasina’s Resignation

The survey revealed that a majority of respondents were aware of the significant political change, with 56.06% being completely aware of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s resignation amid growing unrest and protests. Another 35.56% were vaguely aware, while 8.38% were completely unaware of the development.

The data indicates strong public support for the student-led protests that ultimately led to Hasina’s resignation. An overwhelming 74.22% of respondents felt that the movement was justified, while 25.78% reckoned the movement was unjustified, in its demand for her to step down, reflecting widespread dissatisfaction with her government’s handling of civil liberties and human rights.

Opinions On Hasina’s Rule

A significant 75.54% of participants agree with the opposition’s characterization of Hasina’s 15-year rule as “authoritarian.” This perspective aligns with the view of 75.48% of respondents who believe the accusations against Hasina, including allegations of suppressing opposition and arranging extrajudicial killings, were valid. Meanwhile 24.52% thought the allegations were invalid.

Public opinion is divided regarding the celebratory actions that followed Hasina’s resignation. 43.64% of respondents supported the celebrations, including the symbolic chiseling away of a statue of Hasina’s father, while 56.36% opposed these actions, reflecting a more cautious or respectful approach to the situation.

Read Also: Is Bangladesh’s Job Quota System Fair? 57% Say Yes

What’s Next?

Following Hasina’s resignation, there is substantial support for Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus to lead the interim government, with 75.5% of respondents in favor of this move while 24.32% were against it. This suggests a desire for a leader perceived as a symbol of integrity and a new direction for the country.

The resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has ignited hope among many in Bangladesh for a renewed commitment to democracy and civil liberties, signaling a significant shift in the nation’s political landscape.

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