Bangladesh Politics

Bangladesh’s entrenched political culture, rooted in decades of illiberal democracy, violence, and bad governance, casts a long shadow.

Despite their legacy of activism – including during the July Revolution – Bangladesh’s leftist groups remain marginalized in the broader political discourse.

After a long period of military rule, the military’s overt role in politics has diminished since the 1990s – as evidenced by its restrained role during the revolution of July-August 2024.

As the National Citizens’ Committee evolves into a political party it will face challenges establishing its own place in a deeply polarized political arena.

The BNP’s secretary general says the party sees the mass uprising of July-August 2024 as “the emergence of a new opportunity to transform Bangladesh into a democratic state.” 

Rather than addressing the challenges faced by Hindus, political parties – particularly the Awami League – have a history of politicizing their struggles.

The upcoming change in the U.S. administration is likely to affect Bangladesh's politics, economy, climate change adaptation, and more.

Many are wondering whether the pattern of politicization in the judiciary is repeating, simply with a change in the direction of political bias.

One of the primary reasons for skepticism lies in the historical context of governance in Bangladesh.

Instead of focusing on bringing accountability into the armed forces he leads, Army Chief Gen Waker-Uz-Zaman is busy offering unsolicited views on an election timeline.

Hasina’s Awami League has already been ousted from mainstream politics. Will it end up on the path toward violent extremism and strategic marginalization?