“One, two, three, four, Sheikh Hasina is a dictator!”
This chant has gained significant traction among young protesters in Bangladesh, uniting them under a single demand: the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.
Just a month ago, such words expressed openly in the streets would have seemed unimaginable. The 76-year-old Hasina has maintained a tight grip on the South Asian nation of 170 million since assuming power in 2009.
As the situation escalates, the country is now under an indefinite curfew, with fears of escalating violence as hundreds of thousands of protesters prepare for a significant march in Dhaka.
These protests represent one of the most substantial challenges to Hasina’s authority since she took office. Despite her being labeled a dictator by demonstrators, she has remained resolute, condemning the protesters as “terrorists.” Law Minister Anisul Huq dismissed the calls for her resignation as “unjustified,” attributing them to emotional reactions.
Although Hasina extended an invitation to dialogue with protest leaders, the offer was turned down, showcasing her refusal to concede power without a struggle. This approach raises concerns that the situation may lead to further bloodshed.
As the daughter of Bangladesh’s founding president, Sheikh Hasina holds the record as the world’s longest-serving female head of government. Her tenure has been marred by numerous allegations, including forced disappearances, extrajudicial killings, and suppression of dissent—a claim her government vehemently denies, instead accusing opposition parties of instigating unrest.
The mounting unrest signifies a shift in public sentiment. Protesters now span various demographics, not solely students, indicating a broader discontent with Hasina’s leadership. This intensified movement follows earlier protests in July sparked by job quotas, which Hasina eliminated amidst escalating tensions.
A violent crackdown by security forces has exacerbated the crisis, with reports of at least 90 fatalities, including 13 police officers, in one of the deadliest days in recent protest history, drawing condemnation as a “carnage.”
Professor Samina Luthfa from Dhaka University stated that Hasina believes the situation remains manageable; however, the prevailing chaos suggests otherwise.
How long can she maintain her grip on power? Her reliance on the military became evident last month when protesters attacked police stations and government facilities. Recent protests continue to challenge her authority, demonstrating that her position is precarious.
The military’s cautious response indicates a potential shift in support, and some former military personnel have voiced backing for the protesters. The military spokesperson emphasized a commitment to uphold constitutional duties.
Additionally, the stance of Bangladesh’s primary ally, India, plays a critical role in the unfolding drama. India has historically supported Hasina, viewing her administration as crucial for regional stability, especially given her actions against anti-India militants.
However, national sentiment against Indian influence is palpable, and political historian Mohiuddin Ahmed warns that without Indian intervention, Hasina’s ability to remain in power may be threatened.
Criticism towards Hasina is mounting both domestically and internationally. The main opposition party, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), has claimed that the last three elections were compromised, a claim Hasina’s Awami League denies, citing the opposition’s boycott of the upcoming 2024 elections.
The current wave of protests transcends traditional political divisions, drawing participation from a wide array of societal sectors. As the nation grapples with the implications of nearly 300 deaths, primarily from police violence during recent demonstrations, the potential for intensified unrest looms large.
If the resolve of the protesters withstands the threat of violence, the implications for Hasina’s government could be dire.
