Khaleda Zia leaves behind a country in the remaking

Context & The Gist

The article appears in the wake of significant political turmoil in Bangladesh, following the death of Khaleda Zia, former Prime Minister and leader of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP). This coincides with the return of her son, Tarique Rahman, from exile, potentially positioning him as a key political figure. The country is currently under an interim government led by Muhammad Yunus, which has struggled to maintain order and prepare for free and fair elections, especially after the banning of the Awami League. The core issue is Bangladesh’s political transition and the challenges of ensuring stability and inclusivity in the upcoming elections, given the historical tensions and the rise of extremist elements.

Key Arguments & Nuances

• End of an Era: Khaleda Zia’s death marks the end of a decades-long political rivalry with Sheikh Hasina, rooted in the foundational disagreements over Bangladesh’s identity – Bengali nationalism versus Bangladeshi nationalism and Islamisation.
• Political Vacuum & Opportunity: The absence of both major leaders (Hasina in exile, Zia deceased) creates a political vacuum, but also an opportunity for a new generation of leaders, particularly Tarique Rahman, to chart a new course.
• Historical Legacies: The article highlights the enduring impact of the historical struggle between Ziaur Rahman and Sheikh Mujibur Rahman on contemporary Bangladeshi politics.
• Need for Inclusivity: The new government must unite factions, protect minorities, and resist extremist elements to succeed.
• India-Bangladesh Relations: Tarique Rahman’s emphasis on strong ties with India and the Indian External Affairs Minister’s attendance at Zia’s funeral signal a potential for improved relations.
• Challenges to Elections: The banning of the Awami League presents a significant challenge to the legitimacy and fairness of the upcoming elections.

UPSC Syllabus Relevance

• GS Paper II: International Relations – India’s Neighbourhood Policy, Bangladesh’s internal political dynamics and its impact on regional stability.
• GS Paper II: Governance – Issues relating to the development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to vulnerable sections of society, role of civil society.
• GS Paper III: Economy – Effect of political instability on economic development.

Prelims Data Bank

• Khaleda Zia: First female Prime Minister of Bangladesh, leader of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP).
• Sheikh Hasina: Former Prime Minister of Bangladesh, leader of the Awami League. Currently in exile.
• Tarique Rahman: Son of Khaleda Zia, recently returned from 17 years of self-imposed exile in London.
• Muhammad Yunus: Head of the interim government in Bangladesh.
• Ziaur Rahman: Former President of Bangladesh, husband of Khaleda Zia, advanced Bangladeshi nationalism and Islamisation.
• Sheikh Mujibur Rahman: Founding father of Bangladesh, advocated for Bengali nationalism, secularism, and socialism.
• Jamaat-e-Islami: Islamist political party in Bangladesh, previously banned, now allowed to operate.

Mains Critical Analysis

Bangladesh is currently navigating a complex political landscape marked by instability and uncertainty. The death of Khaleda Zia and the exile of Sheikh Hasina have created a power vacuum, while the interim government under Muhammad Yunus struggles to maintain order and prepare for free and fair elections.

Political Challenges

The banning of the Awami League, a historically significant party, raises serious concerns about the inclusivity and legitimacy of the upcoming elections. This decision, coupled with the lifting of the ban on Jamaat-e-Islami, suggests a potential shift towards Islamist politics, which could exacerbate existing tensions and undermine secular values. The rise of Tarique Rahman as a potential leader presents both opportunities and risks. While he has expressed a desire for improved relations with India, his ability to unite the country and resist extremist elements remains to be seen.

Economic Implications

Political instability has significant economic implications for Bangladesh. Disruptions to governance, coupled with the potential for social unrest, can deter foreign investment, hinder economic growth, and exacerbate poverty. The country’s reliance on the garment industry makes it particularly vulnerable to external shocks and internal disruptions.

Social Considerations

The protection of minorities is a critical concern in the current environment. The recent attacks on Hindus and other minority groups highlight the need for strong safeguards to prevent violence and discrimination. Ensuring social cohesion and inclusivity is essential for building a stable and prosperous Bangladesh.

Value Addition

• International Crimes Tribunal (ICT): The ICT in Bangladesh has been criticized for its lack of impartiality and due process, particularly in the case of Sheikh Hasina’s death sentence.
• India-Bangladesh Relations: Historically strong, but recently strained by protests and anti-India rhetoric.
• Muhammad Yunus: Nobel Peace Prize laureate, known for his work in microfinance. His leadership of the interim government has been widely criticized.

Context & Linkages

This article provides crucial context, detailing the escalating violence and unrest following Sheikh Hasina’s ouster. It highlights the role of Islamist groups like Jamaat-e-Islami and the failure of the interim government to control the situation. The current article builds upon this by examining the implications of Khaleda Zia’s death in this already volatile environment.

This article reinforces the narrative of a weak and ineffective interim government under Muhammad Yunus. It underscores the challenges of maintaining order and preparing for elections, which are central themes in the current article. The banning of the Awami League, mentioned in both articles, is a key point of contention.

The controversial death sentence handed down to Sheikh Hasina further complicates the political landscape. This article highlights the partisan nature of the Bangladeshi judiciary and the potential for political vendettas, which are relevant to understanding the current crisis.

This article emphasizes the importance of maintaining stable India-Bangladesh relations, despite recent tensions. The current article’s mention of Tarique Rahman’s positive stance towards India aligns with the call for insulating the relationship from short-term political considerations.

The Way Forward

• Inclusive Elections: Ensure the participation of all major political parties, including the Awami League, in free and fair elections.
• Strengthen Democratic Institutions: Reform the judiciary and electoral commission to ensure impartiality and transparency.
• Counter Extremism: Implement a comprehensive strategy to counter extremist ideologies and prevent violence.
• Protect Minorities: Strengthen legal protections for minorities and ensure their safety and security.
• Economic Reforms: Implement policies to promote economic growth, reduce poverty, and create employment opportunities.
• Strengthen India-Bangladesh Relations: Continue to foster cooperation in areas of mutual interest, such as trade, security, and infrastructure development.