Monday 09 / September / 2024
Muscat: Bangladeshi expatriates in Oman have expressed hopes that the turmoil in their home country will soon come to an end and that normalcy will be restored. This comes in the wake of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s departure from office amid chaotic scenes on Monday.
Thousands of people stormed the prime minister’s official residence in the capital, as seen in footage televised by Bangladesh’s Channel 24.
The scenes forced Sheikh Hasina to flee the country following mass protests. A television report from Dhaka showed a helicopter purportedly carrying Hasina leaving the capital.
The Bangladeshi expatriate community in Oman has been on edge for weeks, concerned about the violent protests that have left hundreds dead and injured. The disruption of internet and telecommunications services has made it difficult for them to contact their loved ones back home. The country has been gripped by some of the worst violence since its independence, with recent protests escalating dramatically.
Sirajul Haque, Chairman of the Bangladesh Social Club Oman, has urged his fellow countrymen in Oman not to hold any celebrations or gatherings without official permission.
In his exclusive remarks to Times of Oman on Monday, Haque said: “It is strictly prohibited to hold any celebrations or gatherings anywhere in Oman, even if peaceful, without a permit from the competent authority.”
The Bangladesh Social Club has proactively informed all Bangladeshi expats about Omani laws regarding public gatherings.
Haque appealed for calm and peace during this tumultuous time.
“We received reports that some people were planning to celebrate after Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina left the country.”
“But we strictly told them, if you want to celebrate, go to Bangladesh and take part in the celebrations there,” he said.
The protests in Bangladesh, sparked by a controversial quota that reserves 30 percent of government jobs for relatives of war veterans — a move protesters claim favours the ruling party — have resulted in hundreds of deaths.
In the midst of the chaos, Bangladesh Army Chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman addressed the nation on Monday, announcing that an interim government would be formed following Sheikh Hasina’s resignation and departure.
“We will form an interim government, and that interim government will run the country. We will go to the president, discuss all the issues, and bring peace back to the country. I am taking full responsibility for your safety. We will fulfil all your demands, discuss all issues, and together find a solution. Our country has faced significant loss—economic and human. We cannot achieve anything with violence. Give us some time, and we will bring peace,” the army chief said.
