Thu Feb 27 16:20:02 UTC 2025: ## Bangladeshi Students Launch New Political Party After Overthrow of Hasina

**DHAKA, BANGLADESH** – Students instrumental in the overthrow of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina have formed a new political party, the Ganatantrik Chhatra Sangsad (Democratic Student Council), adding to the already volatile political landscape ahead of anticipated elections in Bangladesh.

The new party, announced on February 26th, includes key members of the Students Against Discrimination (SAD) group, the driving force behind the August uprising that ousted Hasina. However, the launch was marred by internal disputes, with physical clashes breaking out amongst members over representation. Further fracturing is expected, with other SAD leaders, including some who served in the interim government, planning to launch a separate party on February 28th.

The Ganatantrik Chhatra Sangsad’s membership also includes former members of Hasina’s Awami League youth wing, though the party claims to have carefully vetted these recruits. Zahid Ahsan, a party leader, stated that they ensured no members involved in violence during the revolution were included. The party’s stated goals are to protect student rights and uphold the principles of the mass movement that toppled Hasina’s government.

Hasina, currently in self-imposed exile in India, faces arrest warrants in Dhaka on various charges, including crimes against humanity. Recent clashes between rival student groups have resulted in over 150 injuries.

Caretaker Prime Minister Muhammad Yunus has indicated that general elections are likely in late 2025 or early 2026, with the Bangladesh Nationalist Party expected to be a major contender. The emergence of the Ganatantrik Chhatra Sangsad further complicates the already tense political situation in Bangladesh.

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