Bangladesh president Shahabuddin dissolves parliament

Bangladesh president Mohammed Shahabuddin on Tuesday, 6 August dissolved the parliament, a day after prime minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and fled the country following massive protests against her government.

"The decision to dissolve the parliament was taken following the president's discussions with chiefs of three staff of armed forces, leaders of different political parties, representatives of civil society and leaders of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement," the Daily Star newspaper reported, citing a statement issued by his office.

Earlier in the day, the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, a platform that led the recent protest, issued an ultimatum demanding to dissolve the Jatiya Sangsad by 3pm today, while the BNP also came up with a similar demand, reported Daily Sun.

It also said BNP Chairperson and former premier Khaleda Zia was freed.

Moreover, the process to release those arrested between 1 July to August has started, and many have already been released, it added.

The president's move to dissolve the parliament cleared the way for new elections.

More updates to follow.