EU calls for peaceful transition to democratically elected government in Bangladesh

The European Union has called for an orderly and peaceful transition to a democratically elected government in Bangladesh after prime minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and fled the country on Monday.

Josep Borrell, EU high representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, said he was saddened by the loss of life during demonstrations in Bangladesh in recent days and called for the release of those arbitrarily detained.

Several hundred people have been killed since anti-government protests began in July. On Monday, at least 56 protesters were killed in the Bangladeshi capital Dhaka, AFP reported, citing police and hospital sources.

Hasina fled the country by helicopter on Monday shortly before protesters stormed her palace in Dhaka. Following her resignation, the country's army chief decided to form an interim government.

"It is vital that an orderly and peaceful transition towards a democratically elected government is ensured, in full respect of human rights and democratic principles," said Borrell.

^{Protesters in Chittagong following the news that prime minister Sheikh Hasina had resigned and was leaving the country © PHOTO MOHAMMED SHAJAHAN/ZUMA PRESS WIRE}