Did Former Bangladeshi President Abdul Hamid Leave the Country?
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Synopsis
In a significant political development, former Bangladeshi President Abdul Hamid has left the country amid ongoing tensions following Sheikh Hasina's ouster. This departure raises questions about political turmoil and the future of democracy in Bangladesh. Discover the implications of this move and its impact on the nation's political landscape.
Key Takeaways
- Abdul Hamid has left Bangladesh amidst political upheaval.
- Legal charges exist against him, but no travel ban was imposed.
- The interim government led by Muhammad Yunus faces criticism for alleged political vendetta.
- Many Awami League leaders have fled the country post-uprising.
- Concerns for the future of democracy in Bangladesh are growing.
Dhaka, May 8 (NationPress) Abdul Hamid, the former President of Bangladesh, departed from the country on Thursday, following the ousting of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina amid the violent July uprising, as reported by local media.
Hamid, a prominent leader of the Awami League, served two consecutive terms from 2013 to 2023 during Hasina's administration.
The Bangladeshi daily The Dhaka Tribune cited sources confirming that Hamid flew to Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, aboard a Thai Airways flight.
In the aftermath of the Awami League's downfall, a legal case was initiated against Hamid, along with Sheikh Hasina and several others, concerning an attack and gunfire incident at a protest in Kishoreganj during the nationwide student movement, according to local news.
An immigration official stated, "We were aware of the case against him in Kishoreganj. However, there was no travel ban placed by the court or the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) that would prevent his departure. Thus, there were no legal obstacles to his travel abroad. Additionally, he is experiencing health issues." This comment was made when questioned about why Hamid was permitted to leave despite the pending charges.
Hamid was a member of the Awami League and had previously held the position of Speaker in the Ninth Parliament of Bangladesh from 2009 to 2013.
Many prominent Awami League figures fled the country after the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus took power in August of the previous year.
The Yunus administration has issued multiple arrest warrants against former PM Hasina, her relatives, and supporters of the Awami League.
Political analysts view these actions as significant political retaliation by the interim government under Yunus, as the charges against Hasina and her supporters were lodged on dubious grounds shortly after her removal in August 2024.
In February, Hasina addressed her supporters online from India, accusing the Yunus-led interim government of transforming the nation into a center of alleged "terrorism" and "lawlessness."
A key advocate for re-establishing democracy in the nation, Hasina, daughter of Bangladesh's founding leader Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, was forced to flee the country in disgrace and seek asylum in India on August 5.
Point of View
It is essential to acknowledge the complex political landscape in Bangladesh. The departure of former President Abdul Hamid signals a worrying trend of political suppression and retaliation against opposition figures. It's crucial to remain vigilant in safeguarding democratic principles and ensuring that voices advocating for democracy are heard.
NationPress
25/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Abdul Hamid leave the country?
Abdul Hamid left due to the political unrest following the violent uprising and was not under any travel ban despite facing legal challenges.
What are the charges against Abdul Hamid?
Hamid is facing charges related to an attack on a demonstration in Kishoreganj during the student movement.
Who is Muhammad Yunus?
Muhammad Yunus is the leader of the interim government that took power after the ousting of Sheikh Hasina.
What impact does Hamid's departure have on Bangladesh?
Hamid's departure amplifies concerns regarding political stability and the potential for further repression of the Awami League and its supporters.
What does this mean for the future of democracy in Bangladesh?
The ongoing political turmoil poses significant challenges for democracy in Bangladesh, raising concerns about the direction of governance and civil liberties.
