Dr. Sabrina Syed:
Without significant protests and/or bloodshed Bangladesh often cannot end a government. This pattern was recently exemplified by student-led initiatives initially aimed at reforming the quota system, which eventually culminated in the government’s fall. Unlike previous protests to overthrow a government, this movement was predominantly driven by common people, especially university students and recent graduates.
The worst decision made by the Awami government during this protest was to deploy police forces, including attacks on students. As a result, even after the quota system was reformed—though there is debate about the effectiveness and scientific basis of the new system—the protesters did not make additional demands for further improvements. Instead, they continued to demand justice for those injured or killed during the protests. With over 100 confirmed casualties reported by official sources—possibly more in actual count—the protesters called for the resignation of the government.
Protesters and common people are now calling for a transparent government that will genuinely serve the country. However, there is uncertainty about who will be responsible for establishing such a government. This situation has become a national crisis, as the search for a suitable government continues, which could potentially result in prolonged military backed interim government. The last interim government was brought down after a similar student protest initiated by Dhaka University. However, the scenario was different then, as political parties were actively involved, unlike this time when most political parties in Bangladesh are fragmented and weakened.
We have already noticed, the military is liaising the transition of power and met with leaders from Jamaat-e-Islami (an Islamic political party), Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and others. While the liaison initiative is unfolding, the country has also observed people destroying public property, attacking minority communities, and taking revenge on each other in the absence of effective law enforcement. This retaliation may not be entirely political but often personal. Some are questioning the goals of the protesters, while others are questioning the values of the nation. Are they all corrupt and in need of a strict government like the military?
Some believe that those carrying out the attacks are supporters of the Awami government who are disgruntled by its fall. Others argue that these individuals were opposed to the previous government. Additionally, some suggest that these people are part of the protesters. There are also claims that the looting and destruction are being justified as a form of victory and are being normalized by framing the civil unrest as a war of independence, conflating the current situation with the liberation war.
This chaotic scenario has terrified many innocent people. Some fear that either military or Islamic power might come to the forefront, a prospect that many Bangladeshis do not support. Student protesters have demanded to bring in Dr. Muhammad Yunus, a social entrepreneur, banker, economist and civil society leader who was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2006, as the chief adviser of interim government. In 2007, during the tenure of the previous interim government, Dr. Yunus attempted to establish a political party but later decided not to continue with the venture. Many believe that Dr. Yunus is backed by the US government, given that his prestigious awards were conferred by the US. While Dr. Yunus is successful in his work, it remains uncertain how much success he would bring to this country.
Whoever leads the interim government, there should be a process for accountability, which is often absent in the Bangladeshi political system. People should not blindly believe in a person as their leader but should hold them accountable for their actions and decisions. To achieve this, if it requires revising the constitution, these revisions should be made before appointing the interim government. This country has gone through a lot, and there is no time for another mistake.
Bangladeshi people should avoid relying on military force or an interim government for too long. Instead, they should advocate for a fair election. Although this process may take time, it is crucial to establish a clear timeline. This will enable the weakened political parties, particularly those affected during the Awami government’s tenure, to rebuild their strength. Furthermore, it is important to include grassroots leaders and politicians in the discussions.
Though the people of Bangladesh may not rely on any political party anymore, to keep the country’s sovereignty alive, it is essential to have an organized elected government that fulfills the definition of an independent country. We must remember that a country is defined by its settled population, defined territory, government, and the ability to enter into relations with other states.
Author:
Dr Sabrina Syed, Academic, The University of Newcastle, Australia.