The events in Bangladesh highlight the dangers of political repression and economic instability leading to public unrest. The combination of stifling dissent and economic challenges had created a volatile environment, ultimately culminating in a violent clash between the government and the citizens. The stagnating economy, along with high unemployment rates, exacerbated the discontent among the population. Sheikh Hasina’s resignation signals a pivotal moment for Bangladesh and other developing nations in the region. It serves as a stark reminder that authoritarian tactics and crackdowns on dissent can fuel public outrage and destabilize the democratic fabric of a country. The need for credible elections and a swift transition of power to civilian authorities is crucial for restoring stability and democratic governance in Bangladesh.

 

After several weeks of deadly anti-government protests, Sheikh Hasina Wajed’s fifth stint as Bangladesh’s prime minister came to an unceremonious end on Monday. Following news of her resignation—or possibly her ousting—and her subsequent departure from the country, celebrations erupted on Dhaka’s streets.

 

Since last month, Bangladesh has been engulfed in growing unrest. A student-led protest movement initially demanded an end to government job quotas reserved for descendants of ‘freedom fighters’ who had participated in the creation of Bangladesh. However, the protests soon expanded beyond job quotas, tapping into widespread discontent with Hasina’s government. Her 15-year rule, marked by the decimation of opposition and the shutting down of safety valves for dissent, culminated in a volcanic eruption of public anger.

 

Critics of Hasina’s government accused it of indulging in corruption, extrajudicial killings, and enforced disappearances. In the past several weeks, the administration, along with supporters of Hasina’s Awami League, fought pitched battles with demonstrators, resulting in the deaths of at least 300 people. This series of events led to her eventual departure, followed by the announcement of an interim set-up by the Bangladesh army chief.

 

Both Bangladesh and Pakistan have experienced cycles of military rule, direct and indirect, which have only harmed the democratic process. While it can be argued that Hasina’s repressive actions, misgovernance, and ensuing unpopularity created a golden opportunity for the army to assert itself, the generals in Bangladesh must be condemned for their interference and for further damaging the democratic process. The disastrous consequences of such meddling can last for generations.

 

In Hasina’s Bangladesh, the unrelenting throttling of the opposition meant that political battles were fought on the streets rather than in parliament or at the ballot box. However, it was not the army’s place to intervene. Power should return to civilian hands through credible elections as soon as possible, and the army should retreat to the barracks without delay. If the troops do not exit soon, given the charged political environment, Bangladesh may enter a new phase of instability.

 

Hasina’s fall offers lessons for all developing states, particularly those in South Asia, which share many sociopolitical traits with Bangladesh. Political repression, combined with economic frailty, is a recipe for public unrest. Along with crackdowns on the opposition, Bangladesh’s economic progress had slowed, with the country turning to the IMF last year. When all avenues for dissent are closed off and authoritarian tactics are used to clamp down on political opponents, the stage is set for either violent upheaval or the entry of unelected forces moving in to ‘save the day’.

 

Hasina’s departure marks the end of a significant chapter in Bangladesh’s history. Her 15-year rule, characterised by both notable economic achievements and severe political repression, has left a complex legacy. While her administration succeeded in boosting the economy and bringing more women into the workforce, it also stifled political opposition and freedom of expression.

 

The recent student-led protests were a response to these repressive measures. The initial demand to end job quotas for descendants of freedom fighters quickly morphed into a broader movement against Hasina’s autocratic rule. The protests were met with a heavy-handed response from the government, resulting in hundreds of deaths and widespread unrest. The situation escalated to the point where the military felt compelled to intervene, leading to Hasina’s resignation and departure from the country.

 

The announcement of an interim government by the Bangladesh army chief, General Waker-Uz-Zaman, has raised concerns about the future of democracy in Bangladesh. Military interventions in political affairs have historically undermined democratic processes and led to prolonged periods of instability. It is crucial that the interim government quickly facilitates credible elections and transitions power back to civilian hands.

 

India, a close ally of Hasina, is likely to be concerned about its influence in Bangladesh following her departure. However, this moment belongs to the people of Bangladesh, who have demonstrated their desire for democratic governance and an end to authoritarian rule. The international community must support Bangladesh in its journey towards a stable and democratic future.

 

The fall of Sheikh Hasina serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of political repression and economic mismanagement. Developing states, particularly in South Asia, must heed these lessons and work towards creating inclusive and transparent political systems. When governments shut down avenues for dissent and use authoritarian tactics to maintain power, they risk igniting widespread unrest and inviting intervention from unelected forces.

 

Bangladesh now faces a critical juncture in its history. The interim government must prioritise restoring peace and stability while ensuring that the democratic process is upheld. Free and fair elections should be held as soon as possible, allowing the people of Bangladesh to choose their leaders without fear of repression or violence.

 

The struggle for democracy in Bangladesh is far from over. While Hasina’s departure marks the end of an era, it also presents an opportunity for the country to rebuild its democratic institutions and strengthen its commitment to human rights and political freedom. The road ahead will undoubtedly be challenging, but with determination and support from the international community, Bangladesh can emerge as a stronger and more resilient democracy.

 

As the nation moves forward, it is essential to remember the lessons of the past and to strive for a future where political power is obtained through democratic means, and where the voices of all citizens are heard and respected. Only then can Bangladesh achieve lasting peace, stability, and prosperity.

 

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