Gen Z Leader Nahid Islam Catalyzes Historic Transition in Bangladesh

Nahid Islam, a 26-year-old sociology student, led a historic protest that resulted in the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina after 15 years in power. The movement, initially against job quotas, turned deadly but gained widespread support. Islam now calls for a new democratic Bangladesh free from military influence.

Draped in the Bangladeshi flag, 26-year-old sociology student Nahid Islam emerged as the face of a protest that toppled Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina after a 15-year rule.

Initially a movement against government job quotas, the protests escalated into a national outcry, with violence claiming nearly 300 lives. Despite being detained, Islam's influence grew, leading to Hasina's resignation and an interim government announcement.

Islam, advocating for Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus as chief adviser, insists on a civilian-led government and vows to protect minority rights. His persistence, despite personal hardship, signals a potential democratic transition, hailed as historic by experts.

(With inputs from agencies.)