Governance and Democracy in Bangladesh: A Critical Juncture

Abstract

Bangladesh’s political trajectory has experienced a sharp inflection point on 5 August 2024. Sheikh Hasina led Awami League government forced to halt its power exercise by mass revolution and Hasina fled to India with the help of Bangladesh Armed Forces. Awami league government was extremely involved in taking decisions which often limits the freedom of other key constitutional organisations. There were formal local and national elections but political violence, public instability, rampant corruption and serious restrictions on free speech have a magnificent impact on democracy. This study is based on the pre and post of August 5, 2024 and examines the changing political and governance scenario in Bangladesh. The study examines the consequences of these changes on democratic governance and institutional integrity through a comparative analysis based on secondary data. Through the governance indicators, policy directions and institutional behaviour, the study examines the challenges and opportunities that have been created. In the pre-period, Political news from Bangladesh often focused on the hype of development work, routine government activities, conflicts between ruling and opposition parties but after August 5, the scenario was completely changed in some areas but badly affected by political instability, bad management and mob violence. Initial observations suggest that news began to highlight such as accountability, the role of students and youth, demands for reform and concerns for justice and human rights. The change is seen with the signal of increasing tension between authoritarianism and democratic hopes. The study considers a governance model with accountability is pivotal for sustainable development and governance of Bangladesh. Some suggestions have been made with a view to constructing resilient institutions, building accountability and regaining the trust of the citizens which are the main pillars of democratic Bangladesh.