After ruling for more than 15 years, Sheikh Hasina’s Awami League government came to an end on August 5, 2024, signaling a shift away from a regime characterized by nepotism, elite control, and bureaucratic manipulation. The interim government that followed, bolstered by student leaders and civil society representatives, promised a fresh start. However, reflecting on the one-year anniversary of this significant change, it becomes apparent that despite the apparent changes, much remains unchanged.
This observation goes beyond recognizing political stagnation; it delves into a deeper issue affecting postcolonial states. Like many postcolonial nations, Bangladesh continues to grapple with what Partha Chatterjee termed as the “derivative nature” of its politics, where it adopts democratic and revolutionary forms without addressing fundamental aspects such as ethics, justice, and institutional integrity.
Instead of dismantling the structures of inequality from the previous era, the new administration seems to have inherited and perpetuated them. The bureaucratic system, once subservient to a political party, remains largely intact, with new leaders often replicating the behaviors of their predecessors. Issues such as bureaucratic inefficiency at the passport office, delays in license issuance by BRTA, and the prioritization of VIP motorcades persist. This continuity is not solely due to policy shortcomings but is deeply rooted in a culture of entitlement and feudal deference that has been ingrained over generations.
Furthermore, there is a troubling trend of individuals who were once part of the movement now being accused of engaging in practices they once opposed. Extortion, favoritism, and influence-peddling have seeped into the ranks of those who initially stood for justice, illustrating a concept akin to the “tragedy of history” where noble intentions are corrupted by the dynamics of power.
Drawing parallels to historical events like the Bolshevik Revolution and the French Revolution, it becomes evident that the moral authority of mass uprisings can be eroded by leaders’ failure to transcend control and domination paradigms. In the case of Bangladesh’s post-July regime, the issue lies not in the gradual pace of reform but in the lack of ethical commitment, resulting in a disappointing continuity rather than a genuine transformation.
Despite the setbacks, there remains hope that the disillusionment of the past year can spark a more profound reflection. It is crucial to move beyond the spectacle of change and delve into the essence of transformation. This calls for a fundamental reevaluation of the ethical principles that underpin governance in Bangladesh and a renewed focus on justice, integrity, and public service.
Education also plays a pivotal role in this paradigm shift. Universities should not only serve as hubs of resistance but also platforms for introspection. Students must not only demand their rights but also embody principles of justice. Emphasizing civic education as a pursuit of wisdom, integrity, and service can pave the way for a more conscientious society.
To the youth who led the movement last July, envisioning a Bangladesh free from discrimination, it serves as a reminder that revolutions are ongoing commitments rather than isolated events. The true value of revolutions lies not in destruction but in creation. The vision of a better Bangladesh requires continuous effort, step by step, truth by truth. The journey toward a more just society is a collective endeavor that is far from over.