WHY SHAIKH HASINA LEFT BANGLADESH

Introduction-

Sheikh Hasina’s resignation as Prime Minister of Bangladesh in August 2024 marked a significant turning point in the nation’s political landscape. For students of international relations, analyzing the multifaceted factors leading to her departure provides insight into the complexities of governance, public dissent, and geopolitical dynamics.

1. Student-Led Protests Against Government Job Quotas–
The peaceful student protest against the freedom fighter reservation of 30% in civil services, galvanized into a nationwide movement due to Government’s heavy-handed approach.

The attack on students by Awami League’s student wing, Bangladesh Chhatra League, imposition of a strict curfew with a ‘shoot-on-sight’ order and labelling the demonstrators as ‘Razakars‘(a term associated with collaborators during the 1971 war) further inflamed.

2. Slowing Down of Economic Growth-
Bangladesh made rapid economic progress under Sheikh Hasina’s regime. The country’s per capita income tripled in a decade, with the World Bank estimating that over 25 million people were lifted out of poverty in the last 20 years.
However, the pandemic in 2020 and a slowing global economy, thereafter, hit the garment industry badly. This increased unemployment, inflation in the economy and discontent of Bangladeshi Population.

3. Eroding Democratic Values- 
The Parliamentary elections in 2014, 2018, and 2024 were controversial and non-participative as they were marred by low turnout, violence, and boycotts by opposition parties.

4. Allegations of Authoritarianism and Suppression of Dissent–

Media and Opposition Suppression: Critics accused Hasina’s administration of curbing press freedom and silencing political opponents, leading to widespread dissatisfaction. The perceived erosion of democratic institutions fueled public outrage, contributing to the mass protests.
Example- The Digital Security Act 2018, became a potent weapon for the government and ruling party activists to silence critics and stifle freedom of online expression.

5. Increasing Economic Inequality–
Despite economic growth, many citizens felt left behind, with rising living costs and unemployment exacerbating frustrations. further reports of corruption within the government further eroded public trust in Hasina’s leadership.
For Example– Companies like CLC Power, Western Marine Shipyard, and Remex Footwear topped the list of defaulters, with bad loans ranging from 965 crore to 1,649 crore Bangladeshi Taka.

6. Military Intervention–

Escalating Violence: As protests intensified and became more violent, the military intervened, pressuring Hasina to resign to restore order.
Caretaker Government Formation: Following her resignation, the military established an interim government to manage the transition.

Implications of this on Bangladesh’s Political Stability–

1. Power Vacuum and Political Uncertainty–

Leadership Void: Hasina’s departure created a leadership gap, leading to uncertainty within the Awami League and the broader political landscape.
Potential for Factionalism: The absence of a clear successor may lead to internal conflicts within the ruling party.

2. Economic Instability–

Investor Concerns: Political unrest may deter foreign investment, affecting economic growth.
Trade Disruptions: Instability could disrupt key industries, such as textiles, which are vital to Bangladesh’s economy.

3. Human Rights and Governance Challenges–

Continued Violations: Reports of human rights abuses during the protests highlight ongoing governance issues.
Judicial Reforms Needed: The interim government faces pressure to implement reforms to address past abuses and restore public trust.

4. Regional Relations and Security Concerns–

Impact on India-Bangladesh Relations: Hasina’s close ties with India were pivotal; her resignation introduces uncertainties in bilateral relations.
Rise of Islamist Groups: The political vacuum may allow Islamist factions to gain influence, potentially affecting regional security.

Conclusion-

In conclusion, Sheikh Hasina’s resignation was precipitated by a combination of public dissent, allegations of authoritarianism, economic grievances, and military intervention. The aftermath presents significant challenges for Bangladesh’s political stability, necessitating careful navigation to ensure a peaceful and democratic transition.

Direct Questions on this topic-

Discuss the key factors that led to Sheikh Hasina’s resignation as Bangladesh’s Prime Minister. Analyze their implications on Bangladesh’s political stability.

Examine the role of student-led protests and public dissent in the political downfall of Sheikh Hasina. How do such movements shape democratic transitions?

To what extent did allegations of authoritarianism and human rights violations contribute to Sheikh Hasina’s exit from power?

Analyze the economic challenges faced by Bangladesh under Sheikh Hasina’s leadership and their role in her resignation.

Discuss the role of the Bangladeshi military in the resignation of Sheikh Hasina. How do civil-military relations impact democratic stability in South Asia?