-Akbar Haider Siddiqui
After the Installation of the Interim Government of Bangladesh
The interim government of Bangladesh inherited a deeply troubled situation from the previous administration of the deposed Sheikh Hasina and her Awami League. Fifteen years of mismanagement, corruption, and the systematic destruction of national institutions left the country in disarray. Hasina fled the country, leaving behind an immense burden for the interim government to reform the economy and restore dysfunctional institutions to normalcy. This is no small task, compounded by the need to address law and order issues in the face of widespread public anger caused by the suppression of democracy and freedom of speech. Ensuring stability is a fundamental priority for the new government.
Over the past 15 years, Hasina’s regime ruled with an iron fist, creating a cadre within key security institutions, such as the Bangladesh Army, Directorate General of Forces Intelligent (DGFI), Rapid Action Battalion (RAB), Border Guard of Bangladesh (BGP), CID, NSI, DB and the Police Department, often with the support of India’s Research and Analysis Wing (RAW). Hasina, feeling untouchable, stacked these institutions with loyalists, making her rule seem unchallengeable. This stranglehold on power extended even to the judiciary, turning it into a puppet organization under her control. Every institution, it seems, is infiltrated by RAW agents. This presents a real challenge for the interim government, as there is a constant risk of counter-revolutionary movements aiming to topple this second revolution for freedom and democracy in Bangladesh, as evidenced by the unrest at the Secretariat building last week.
Challenges Ahead
Hasina’s close associates, some still hiding within the country or protected by the army or other sympathetic forces, did not have the opportunity to flee with her. These figures, along with the active members of the Awami League who benefited immensely from her corrupt rule, will seize every opportunity to undermine the interim government. Vigilance is crucial.
This revolution is a once-in-a-lifetime achievement for Bangladesh, driven by the youth of the nation and their anti-discrimination movement. The student leaders are expected to steer the country toward a future free of corruption. However, rebuilding a functional and honest system after 15 years of dysfunction will take time. Those calling for quick elections must understand that meaningful reform requires patience. Pushing for elections prematurely risks allowing the very forces of corruption and tyranny to return. The sacrifices made for this revolution must not be in vain; a solid foundation of democracy and freedom must be established for future generations. All political parties stand to benefit from such reform.
Political Reform
For any political organization to be part of this reformist governance system, they must demonstrate their commitment through action, not just rhetoric. Political parties must amend their constitutions to reflect the new values of this revolution. The Awami League, which came to power in 2009 under a caretaker government only to dismantle that system, serves as a stark reminder of how unchecked power corrupts.
Political parties should consider the following reforms:
Disband Student Wings: To show commitment to reform, political parties should voluntarily disband their student organizations.
Term Limits: There should be term limits for party leadership to ensure democracy within the party.
Nominee Selection: The selection of parliamentary candidates should not rest solely with the party leader; a merit-based system is essential.
Caretaker Government for Elections: A caretaker system should be enshrined in party constitutions to ensure free and fair elections.
Clear Policy Agendas: Parties should provide clear, actionable plans for the economy, healthcare, housing, job creation, foreign policy, and more.
Debates for Leaders: Prospective leaders for key positions, such as Prime Minister, should engage in public debates.
Youth Leadership: Political parties must create opportunities for younger leaders to emerge.
Commitment to Freedom of Speech: Parties should declare their stance on protecting freedom of speech and ensuring a neutral media.
Students and Academia
Student wings of political parties, such as the Student League and Juba League, should be banned. Students must focus on their education to become future leaders, and teachers should refrain from engaging in political activity within educational institutions. While teachers have the right to political opinions, these should not influence their professional duties.
Security Establishments
The security sector is one of the most critical areas requiring reform. High-ranking officers in the Army, RAB, BGB, and Police, loyal to the prior regime or connected to RAW, must be identified and removed. Those involved in criminal activities, either overtly or covertly, must face justice.
Civil Administration
In the civil administration, many individuals received undue promotions and benefits through corrupt means. These figures must be thoroughly investigated and removed from their positions to restore integrity to the civil service.
Current President
President Shahabuddin, a close ally of Hasina, must be replaced. Although the presidency is largely ceremonial, the office should be held by someone who respects the constitution, not someone beholden to Hasina. If investigated properly, it may be revealed that even the presidency has been tainted by corruption.
Business Organizations
Business organizations in Bangladesh have become criminal enterprises, engaging in price manipulation and supporting dictatorial governance to secure personal benefits. These actions promote an unhealthy political environment. There must be reforms to ensure that business leaders cannot influence politics for personal gain. Those involved in corrupt practices must be held accountable.
Formation of an Undercover Investigation Unit
I propose the establishment of an undercover investigation unit tasked with rooting out corruption across all institutions, including the Army, DGFI, RAB, BGB, CID, NSI, DB, Police, Civil Administration, and the Judiciary. This unit would provide jobs for the country’s talented youth and help safeguard our institutions from infiltration by foreign agents, particularly RAW operatives. There is strong suspicion that Hasina allowed RAW agents direct access to her and that some, like Depu Moni, were working to undermine the country’s education system under RAW’s direction.
Looking Forward to a New Bangladesh
We envision a Bangladesh where fascism is a thing of the past, where democracy flourishes, and where fairness and equality reign. In this new Bangladesh, citizens will enjoy freedom of speech, security, access to healthcare, education, and housing. Innovation and creativity will be encouraged, give way to a society focused on collective progress.
The task ahead for the interim government is daunting, but with patience and persistence, they can reform and rebuild the corrupt system left behind. Many “bad apples” still exist within every institution, and they will show their true colors when given the chance. Identifying and removing these individuals is essential, and our young, talented leaders are ready to fill the gaps they leave behind.
