The End of the Sheikh Hasina Era: A Political Analysis
– ANUBHAV ANAND
HRDI (CAMPUS AMBASSADOR)
Sheikh Hasina, the longest-serving Prime Minister of Bangladesh, has been a central figure in shaping the country’s modern trajectory. Her tenure, spanning more than a decade, is marked by significant achievements in economic development, infrastructure, and social progress. However, as political dynamics evolve and opposition intensifies, discussions about the potential end of the Sheikh Hasina era have gained momentum. The political future of Bangladesh, with critical elections looming in January 2025, is at a crossroads. This article delves into Sheikh Hasina’s leadership, her government’s accomplishments, the challenges she faces, and the possible implications of a leadership transition.
Sheikh Hasina: A Brief Overview
Born on September 28, 1947, Sheikh Hasina is the eldest daughter of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the founding leader of Bangladesh and the architect of its independence from Pakistan in 1971. Her political career began under tragic circumstances, as her entire family – except for her and her sister – was assassinated during a military coup in 1975.
Hasina entered the political arena as a beacon of resilience, eventually becoming the leader of the Awami League. Her leadership led to the party’s historic victory in 1996, marking her first tenure as Prime Minister. After a brief period in opposition, she returned to power in 2009, and her successive victories have kept her at the helm since then. Her governance has transformed Bangladesh into one of South Asia’s most dynamic economies, earning her recognition on the global stage.
Achievements of Sheikh Hasina’s Government:
Sheikh Hasina’s tenure has been marked by remarkable achievements that have transformed Bangladesh’s economy and society. Under her leadership, the country has experienced sustained economic growth, with GDP growth rates consistently ranging between 6% and 8%, peaking at 8.15% in 2019. This growth has been driven by key sectors such as the textile industry, which positions Bangladesh as the second-largest garment exporter globally, generating over $42 billion annually. Additionally, remittances from the Bangladeshi diaspora, especially from the Middle East, contribute around $25 billion annually to the economy, strengthening foreign reserves. Agriculture has also played a pivotal role, with modernisation efforts ensuring food security, poverty reduction, and rural development.
Infrastructure development has been another cornerstone of Sheikh Hasina’s governance. Her government has undertaken large-scale projects to boost connectivity and economic integration. The $3.6 billion Padma Bridge, completed in 2022, stands as a landmark achievement, connecting underdeveloped regions to Dhaka and facilitating trade. Metro rail projects, expanded highway networks, and energy production plants are further examples of her focus on achieving energy self-sufficiency and sustaining growth.
The “Digital Bangladesh” initiative, launched in 2009, has revolutionised public services by bringing technology to both urban and rural areas. E-governance has streamlined administrative processes, while expanded internet access and mobile financial services have empowered millions of citizens, improving efficiency in the public and private sectors. This digital transformation has also opened up new opportunities for employment and education.
Social progress has been another highlight of Sheikh Hasina’s governance. Significant improvements in health care and education have led to higher life expectancy, now at 72.4 years, and a literacy rate for women exceeding 75%. Targeted programs addressing child mortality, maternal health, and women’s empowerment have earned international recognition. Meanwhile, her focus on gender equality has increased women’s participation in the workforce, education, and decision-making roles.
On the global stage, Sheikh Hasina has adeptly navigated geopolitics, maintaining close ties with India while fostering economic collaboration with China. Her leadership has strengthened Bangladesh’s position in regional platforms like SAARC and BIMSTEC, ensuring active participation in global diplomacy. These accomplishments have cemented her legacy as one of the most influential leaders in Bangladesh’s history.
Challenges Facing Sheikh Hasina:
Despite her impressive achievements, Sheikh Hasina’s administration faces numerous challenges that threaten its political dominance and the nation’s democratic fabric. A major obstacle is the intensifying rivalry between the Awami League and the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), led by Khaleda Zia. This long-standing feud has led to accusations of electoral malpractice, authoritarianism, and the suppression of dissent against Sheikh Hasina’s government. Recent street protests and demands for electoral reforms reflect growing opposition momentum as the 2025 elections approach.
Human rights concerns further her administration’s reputation. International organisations such as Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch have criticised the government for using security forces to suppress protests, restricting press freedom, and enabling enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings. These actions have drawn global criticism, undermining Bangladesh’s democratic image.
Economic vulnerabilities also pose a significant challenge. While the country has experienced rapid growth, it remains susceptible to external shocks. Rising foreign debt, including $3.5 billion owed to China, has raised sustainability concerns, while post-pandemic inflation has increased food prices, eroding household purchasing power. Moreover, as one of the world’s most climate-vulnerable nations, Bangladesh faces recurrent natural disasters, such as floods and cyclones, that threaten its economic and social stability.
Corruption remains pervasive in Bangladeshi politics, further eroding public trust in government institutions. Allegations of cronyism, bribery, and misuse of public funds persist, with Transparency International ranking Bangladesh 147th out of 180 countries on its Corruption Perception Index. These issues undermine the credibility of Sheikh Hasina’s administration.
Youth discontent presents another significant challenge. With nearly half of the population under 25, the country faces rising frustration over high unemployment rates and limited opportunities for upward mobility. This dissatisfaction has fueled calls for systemic change, posing a risk to the Awami League’s ability to retain its younger voter base. These challenges collectively suggest a critical juncture for Sheikh Hasina’s government as it seeks to maintain its political dominance.
Criticism and Commendation of Sheikh Hasina’s Governance:
Sheikh Hasina’s governance has drawn both acclaim and criticism, reflecting the complexities of her leadership. On one hand, her economic vision and transformative policies have earned widespread praise. Under her leadership, Bangladesh graduated from the United Nations’ Least Developed Country (LDC) status in 2021, a milestone celebrated globally. Initiatives aimed at empowering women, improving child and maternal health, and modernising infrastructure have positioned Bangladesh as a rising economic power in South Asia. Her management of the Rohingya refugee crisis, despite limited resources, has been lauded as a humanitarian success. Additionally, her balanced foreign policy has strengthened Bangladesh’s global standing, ensuring productive relations with major powers like India, China, and Western nations.
Conversely, Sheikh Hasina’s tenure has also been marked by significant criticism. Allegations of authoritarianism, electoral manipulation, and human rights abuses have fueled domestic and international concerns. Her administration has faced accusations of consolidating power, suppressing opposition, and stifling press freedom, with the Digital Security Act being widely criticised for silencing journalists and activists. Reports of enforced disappearances, extrajudicial killings, and the erosion of judicial independence have further tarnished her democratic credentials. Corruption within her administration and the growing disillusionment of Bangladesh’s youth add to the criticism. These dualities make Sheikh Hasina’s leadership both a case study in progress and a source of contentious debate.
The Political Landscape Ahead:
As Bangladesh approaches the 2025 elections, the political landscape appears increasingly uncertain. Several scenarios could shape the nation’s future. Sheikh Hasina may retain her position if she successfully addresses critical challenges like human rights concerns, youth unemployment, and corruption. Her ability to stabilise the economy amid global turbulence could further bolster her standing.
However, dissatisfaction within the Awami League or growing public opposition could lead to a transition in leadership, either from within her party or through the rise of a more unified opposition. If the BNP or smaller parties form strategic alliances, Bangladesh could see the emergence of coalition politics, shifting from single-party dominance to a more inclusive governance framework.
Regardless of the outcome, the implications of a leadership change will be profound. A smooth transition could stabilise the political climate, but a contested or abrupt shift might lead to unrest and weaken democratic institutions. Economic policies may also see significant shifts, with new leadership potentially prioritising different areas of development. Changes in social reforms and international relations will depend on the ideological stance of the incoming administration, particularly concerning ties with India and China.
The future of Bangladesh’s political trajectory will hinge on how Sheikh Hasina’s administration and the opposition navigate these critical challenges, ensuring stability and progress for the nation.
Conclusion:
The era of Sheikh Hasina has been transformative for Bangladesh, leaving an indelible mark on its economic, social, and political landscape. Her leadership has driven Bangladesh to impressive heights, including sustained economic growth, improved social indicators, and a stronger international presence. The ambitious infrastructural projects, particularly the Padma Bridge and digital initiatives, have redefined the nation’s development narrative, positioning Bangladesh as a rising power in South Asia.
However, the challenges and controversies surrounding her governance are equally significant. Allegations of authoritarianism, corruption, and human rights violations have created a complex and polarising legacy. The perceived erosion of democratic principles and suppression of dissent have raised concerns about the long-term health of Bangladesh’s political institutions. Despite these criticisms, Sheikh Hasina’s leadership has garnered commendation for its vision and execution, especially in managing crises like the Rohingya refugee influx and navigating geopolitical tensions with major powers like India and China.
As Bangladesh prepares for its next elections in January 2025, the question of whether the Sheikh Hasina era will continue looms large. Her ability to address pressing issues such as youth discontent, unemployment, and corruption will be crucial if she seeks to extend her tenure. Conversely, a transition to new leadership – whether from within the Awami League or the opposition – could mark a significant turning point for the nation. A smooth and democratic transition is critical to maintaining political stability and safeguarding the economic progress achieved during her tenure.
Ultimately, Sheikh Hasina’s era represents a period of both immense progress and intense debate. Whether her legacy will be remembered as a golden age, or a missed opportunity will depend on how her administration addresses current challenges and how future leaders build upon her contributions. The coming years will be pivotal for Bangladesh as it navigates this complex and defining moment in its history.
References:
· “Sheikh Hasina: A Comprehensive Analysis of Her Leadership and Policies”
This article offers an in-depth examination of Sheikh Hasina’s political journey, highlighting her contributions to Bangladesh’s development and the controversies surrounding her tenure.
https://theinvisiblenarad.com/sheikh-hasina/
· “Sheikh Hasina: The Pro-Democracy Icon Who Became an Autocrat”
This BBC News article discusses the transformation of Sheikh Hasina’s leadership style, analyzing her initial democratic ideals and subsequent authoritarian tendencies.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cg3ee303yxpo
· “Sheikh Hasina of Bangladesh: Politics, Personality and Policies”
This chapter from a scholarly book provides a narrative of Sheikh Hasina’s rise and an analysis of her leadership style, illustrating the complex processes of Bangladeshi political history and the challenges of democracy.
https://link.springer.com/content/pdf/10.1057/978-1-137-48240-2_11
· “Bangladesh’s Fragile Democracy: The Authoritarian Tenure of Sheikh Hasina”
This analysis delves into the authoritarian aspects of Sheikh Hasina’s tenure, discussing the suppression of dissent and the impact on Bangladesh’s democratic institutions.
https://southasiacorner.org/bangladeshs-fragile-democracy-the-authoritarian-tenure-of-sheikh-hasina/
· “A Glimpse of the Success Stories of Sheikh Hasina’s Government”
This article highlights the achievements of Sheikh Hasina’s government over 15 years, focusing on economic, social, and environmental developments.
https://dailyasianage.com/news/315720/a-glimpse-of-the-success-stories-of-sheikh-hasinas-government
