After an autocratic leader was toppled in Bangladesh, democratic renewal remains a work in progress

In Bangladesh, a student-led uprising in July led to the ousting of the corrupt government led by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who had been in power for 15 years. The country is now showing signs of democratic progress under a transitional government that has reopened political and civic spaces, initiated reforms, and banned Hasina’s former party, the Awami League, under the Anti-Terrorism Act. Elections have been delayed, and Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus is leading the interim government amid calls for him to continue for another five years. However, challenges persist as the country grapples with questions about electoral democracy, stability, and the rise of extremist forces.

Bangladesh is classified as an “electoral autocracy” and opposition parties like the Bangladesh National Party (BNP) are challenging the legitimacy of the interim government, which faces criticism for lacking a democratic mandate. Economic challenges remain following years of corruption under Hasina’s rule, with concerns about the banking system, inflation, job creation, and investor confidence. Law and order issues, including rising street crime and harassment of minorities and women, are prevalent, while Bangladesh faces isolation on the global stage with disengagement from key allies.

Despite some improvements in political freedoms and civil liberties, challenges persist in media freedom, accountability, and the need for urgent and sustainable reforms. The politically engaged youth have formed a new party called the National Citizen Party (NCP) to bring about a “second republic” in Bangladesh, but face hurdles in consolidating their base and distinguishing themselves from existing parties. The future of Bangladesh’s political landscape hinges on how effectively the interim government and new actors like the NCP can navigate the transition towards lasting transformation.