The year 2024 marked a significant political upheaval for Bangladesh's oldest political party, the Awami League. Despite forming the government for an unprecedented fourth consecutive term through the highly controversial 12th national election on January 7, the administration lasted only seven months.
On August 5, Sheikh Hasina’s government was toppled by a massive student-led uprising, forcing the Prime Minister to seek refuge in India.
The January election, marred by allegations of voter suppression and low turnout, was boycotted by major opposition parties, including the BNP and Jamaat-e-Islami. To create an appearance of competition, Awami League fielded “dummy candidates” in several constituencies, leading to public criticism and mockery.
Following the election, the government faced mounting challenges, including economic instability, corruption allegations, and growing dissent among its political allies. Tensions reached a peak in July when a student movement erupted, demanding justice for alleged corruption and fair governance. The crisis escalated on July 14, when Sheikh Hasina referred to the protesters as "descendants of war collaborators," fueling nationwide unrest.
The situation deteriorated further as law enforcement and party activists responded with excessive force, leading to casualties and widespread condemnation. By August 3, the movement had coalesced into a single demand for the government's resignation. On August 5, following violent clashes and mass defections within law enforcement, the government was forced to step down.
In the aftermath, an interim administration led by Nobel laureate Dr. Muhammad Yunus took over, pledging accountability for the human rights violations and deaths during the protests. Sheikh Hasina and other top leaders of the Awami League now face numerous legal cases, and many party members are in hiding or in custody.
Political analysts liken the current state of the Awami League to its post-1975 turmoil following the assassination of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. The party remains fragmented and absent from mainstream politics, with its return to normalcy uncertain.
BDST: 1408 HRS, DEC 30, 2024
MSK
