by Firoz Mahbub Kamal
Sheikh Hasina’s Opposition to the People, Islam, and DemocracySheikh Hasina’s political strategy in Bangladesh perpetuates an enduring conflict, positioning her as a principal antagonist against the nation’s democratic principles, the Islamic faith, and the populace at large. Her close alliance with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, often characterized as a fellow adversary to these ideals, underscores a shared agenda perceived as antagonistic to these core values. Consequently, Hasina’s actions have repeatedly manifested as direct affronts to Islam, democratic norms, and the rights of the people, thus constituting war crimes. Those who engage in this battle under her command are equally culpable. Recently, the severity of this internal conflict has escalated, marked by the deployment of judiciary members, administrative officials, police, BGB, RAB, military forces, and partisan youth factions like Chhatra League and Jubo League.It is noteworthy that after coming to power in 2008, Hasina utilized the country’s judiciary as a weapon against the democratic rights of the populace. Justice Abul Khair’s abolishment of the provision for a non-partisan caretaker government enabled Hasina and her party to systematically manipulate elections, ensuring a continuous grip on state power. This systematic subversion of democracy has fostered a fascist state, where fundamental rights such as freedom of speech, assembly, and the right to vote are severely curtailed. The judiciary’s complicity in this erosion of democratic values signifies a grave breach of justice, comparable to criminal acts of property theft in any civilized society.Recently, the High Court’s decision to reinstate the quota system, which had been abolished in 2018, epitomizes judicial overreach and a betrayal of students’ constitutional rights. This judicial decision ignited widespread student protests, met with brutal crackdowns sanctioned by Hasina’s administration. This violent suppression resulted in numerous fatalities and injuries among unarmed students, highlighting the regime’s pervasive use of state apparatus for repression. Such actions by Sheikh Hasina and her affiliates in law enforcement and political factions underscore a systemic pattern of human rights abuses and judicial malfeasance.
No options for Halting the Movement
Historically, movements against state oppression can only be pacified through concessions and dialogue, provided no severe casualties are inflicted. However, with the deaths and injuries of hundreds, the focus shifts towards accountability and justice for the victims. The Supreme Court’s reduction of the quota allocation from 56% to 7% did not mollify the protesters, who now demand the prosecution of the perpetrators and the resignation of Hasina, implicated in ordering the brutal crackdowns. The extrajudicial killing of Abu Sayeed by police in Rangpur, a heinous act witnessed by millions, epitomizes the unchecked brutality of Hasina’s regime. In a civilized nation, such an egregious act would prompt immediate arrest and trial of the offenders. However, in Bangladesh, governed by vote riggers and autocrats, justice remains elusive for victims of state violence. The stark contrast between Bangladesh and a truly democratic state lies in the failure to hold accountable those who commit such brutal acts under the guise of maintaining order.
Persistent Repression and Media Blackout
In response to the growing unrest, Hasina’s government has resorted to unprecedented measures, including nationwide curfews and communication blackouts. These actions, more draconian than any imposed during British or Pakistani rule, aim to stifle dissent and conceal the regime’s atrocities. The massacre at Shapla Chattar on May 5, 2013, exemplifies this strategy, where media blackouts and enforced disappearances were employed to mask the regime’s violent crackdown on protestors. The orchestration of a media blackout, the dismantling of television channels, and the erasure of evidence through systematic cleanup operations are indicative of a regime desperate to maintain power at all costs.
The Imminent Demise of the Awami League
Historically, mass movements have resulted in the ousting of autocratic leaders while their parties endured. However, Hasina’s relentless war against the people risks inciting a civil war, potentially leading to the obliteration of the Awami League itself. The existential threat perceived by the party’s leadership underscores the precariousness of their position amidst escalating public discontent.The Awami League, under Hasina’s leadership, faces an unprecedented crisis. Unlike past movements that led to the removal of leaders like Ayub Khan in 1969 or Ershad in 1990, where their respective parties survived, the current trajectory suggests a more dire outcome. Hasina’s violent repression and refusal to engage in dialogue signal a potential for widespread civil unrest, threatening the very existence of the Awami League. Party leaders and activists are increasingly aware of the existential threat posed by the regime’s current path, acknowledging that the party’s survival is at stake.
The Imperative of Justice and Rule of Law
In a truly civilized state, the rule of law mandates that all, regardless of status, are held accountable for their actions. Yet, in Bangladesh, powerful criminals enjoy impunity, exemplified by the unpunished judicial and administrative figures who have enabled electoral fraud and state repression. Establishing a just and civilized society necessitates the prosecution of these offenders, including those within the highest echelons of power. Justice Abul Khair, who facilitated electoral manipulation by abolishing the caretaker government system, and the High Court judge who reinstated the quota system, thereby inciting violence against students, represent significant failures in the judiciary’s role in upholding democracy and justice.The conditions necessary for building a civilized state are predicated on ensuring that no one is above the law. The prime minister, court judges, army officers, and police officers must all be subject to legal accountability. However, Bangladesh remains characterized by a systemic failure to hold powerful individuals accountable for their crimes. The judicial system’s role in enabling electoral fraud and state violence underscores a broader failure to establish the rule of law. In such an environment, justice remains elusive, and the cycle of repression and impunity persists.
A Critical Juncture for Democratic Forces
The current anti-Hasina movement represents a pivotal opportunity to restore democracy in Bangladesh. Failure to seize this moment would be tantamount to a squandered chance at profound political reform. The unity of all democratic forces is crucial to dismantle Hasina’s authoritarian regime and establish a just, free, and prosperous Bangladesh. The international community and divine justice watch closely as Bangladeshis undertake this critical endeavor to reclaim their nation’s future.The unity of democratic forces is imperative to dismantle Hasina’s authoritarian regime and establish a just, free, and prosperous Bangladesh. The stakes are high, and the opportunity presented by the current movement is unprecedented. This moment calls for concerted efforts to rebuild the nation on principles of justice, democracy, and human rights. The student community’s role in galvanizing public sentiment against Hasina’s regime represents a critical juncture in Bangladesh’s political history. It is an opportunity that must be seized to ensure a future where democratic norms and the rule of law prevail.In conclusion, the anti-Hasina movement stands at the threshold of a historic victory. Success in this movement is essential to restore democracy and establish a government that respects human rights and the rule of law. The brutal and repressive tactics of Hasina’s regime have brought Bangladesh to a critical juncture, where the collective will of the people can usher in an era of justice and democratic governance. The unity and resolve of the Bangladeshi people in this struggle will determine the nation’s future trajectory, shaping a path towards a more just, free, and prosperous Bangladesh.
