Following Sheikh Hasina's resignation and departure from Bangladesh on August 5th, General Waker-Uz-Zaman, the Chief of Army Staff, announced the formation of an interim government. Speaking to the nation with global media in attendance, he stated, "I am taking all responsibility for the country. Please cooperate." 

Sheikh Hasina, 76, left Ganabhaban, the official residence of the Bangladeshi Prime Minister, as protesters stormed the building. 

In his military uniform, General Waker-Uz-Zaman appeared on state television with a grave demeanour. He confirmed the establishment of an interim government following Sheikh Hasina's resignation. "Our country has endured significant suffering — the economy is in turmoil, and many lives have been lost. It is crucial to end the violence. I hope my address today will contribute to restoring stability," he said. 

Earlier, army chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman announced Hasina's resignation in a televised address to the nation and said an interim government would be formed.

He said he had held talks with leaders of major political parties - excluding Hasina's long-ruling Awami League - and would soon meet President Mohammed Shahabuddin to discuss the way ahead.

"The country is going through a revolutionary period," said Zaman, 58, who had taken over as army chief only on June 23.

"I promise you all, we will bring justice to all the murders and injustice. We request you to have faith in the army of the country," he said. "Please don't go back to the path of violence and please return to non-violent and peaceful ways."

General Waker-Uz-Zaman, poised to succeed Sheikh Hasina as Bangladesh's head of state, is a veteran infantry officer with nearly 40 years of military service. His distinguished career features two tours as a UN peacekeeper and a prominent tenure as Chief of Army Staff, a role he has held since June, following General SM Shafiuddin Ahmed. 

General Waker-Uz-Zaman’s extensive military experience includes commanding an infantry battalion, an independent infantry brigade, and an infantry division. His staff roles have encompassed positions at the Infantry Brigade, School of Infantry and Tactics, and Army Headquarters. 

He completed his education at the Bangladesh Military Academy and furthered his studies at the Defence Services Command and Staff College in Mirpur and the Joint Services Command and Staff College in the UK. Additionally, he holds degrees in Defence Studies from the National University of Bangladesh and King’s College, University of London. 

Previously, as the principal staff officer at the Armed Forces Division under Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, General Waker-Uz-Zaman was instrumental in shaping national defense strategies and contributing to international peacekeeping efforts. His efforts in modernising the army have been recognised with prestigious honours, including the Army Medal of Glory (SGP) and the Extraordinary Service Medal (OSP). 

Image Source: NDTV