IN ITS first 120 days, Bangladesh’s interim government has made significant strides in stabilising the nation and charting a new course. The interim government’s emphasis on transparency and accountability is evident, with open criticism flourishing in the media and on social platforms — a positive indication of democratic values re-entering public discourse. Backed by strong national and international support, the interim government has introduced several reforms, including public updates and a firm anti-corruption agenda, marking a welcome departure from the secrecy of previous administrations. Key accomplishments include stabilising central bank reserves, establishing reform commissions, engaging the military to assist in maintaining law and order, ensuring the peaceful celebration of the country’s largest Hindu festival, and reopening university campuses.Ìý
Demonstrating responsiveness, the government recently addressed protests by individuals injured during the mass uprising. When the demonstrators called for improved treatment and financial aid, four advisers engaged with them late at night, promising prompt action and committing funds for their medical care and rehabilitation. This interaction highlights the government’s dedication to tackling urgent public concerns openly and directly — an encouraging move towards restoring trust and reinforcing accountability.
As we all know, the fact is that there exists a profound divide between the elite and the working class — a gap that extends beyond economics or culture into the realm of morality. Too often, personal gain has overshadowed integrity, eroding the nation’s social and ethical foundations. For decades, countless Bangladeshis have felt that leaders across the spectrum have prioritised their own interests over the public good, leaving the working class marginalised and neglected.
To bridge this divide, the government must navigate complex challenges on several fronts, including economic strains and political factionalism. Striking the right balance between urgent measures and a sustainable long-term strategy is essential.
The government is grappling with significant economic challenges. Working people are burdened by high inflation, unemployment, and rising living costs, while local corruption, skyrocketing food and fuel prices, and syndicates in critical sectors highlight the difficulties of breaking entrenched power structures. To gain the trust of the working class, the government’s appeals must be genuine and grounded in tangible change, rather than relying on lofty reform rhetoric or placing blame on the institutional failures of the past 15 years.
Political analysts point to a noticeable lack of political acumen within the interim government, as it grapples with balancing the conflicting demands of various factions both inside and outside the government. This struggle appears to be hindering its capacity to produce effective and practical results.
The interim government must focus on addressing the immediate needs, concerns, and hopes of the people. For a rickshaw puller or garment worker, issues like central bank reserves or constitutional reforms are secondary to ensuring they can afford food, safeguard their homes from syndicate exploitation, and provide their children with access to education. Initiatives like the Open Market Sales programmes, which offer essential food items at subsidised prices to low-income families, are a positive step in mitigating the effects of rising food inflation. However, these programmes must be scaled up to reach the millions who continue to face hardship.
While tackling immediate priorities, the government must also focus on creating a robust governance framework capable of enduring political transitions and safeguarding democratic values. To rebuild public trust, it is crucial to avoid past missteps, such as the sudden abolition of the caretaker government in 2011. Ensuring long-term growth for Bangladesh will require strengthening institutions, establishing clear accountability mechanisms, and maintaining diplomatic stability.
People aren’t seeking quick fixes; they want a thoughtful and realistic approach that acknowledges the complexity of the challenges ahead. Rebuilding Bangladesh requires laying a foundation grounded in strong principles and practical, well-considered actions, rather than chasing immediate solutions.
After years of empty promises, regime shifts, and unstable constitutional amendments, many are beginning to question whether traditional governance systems remain relevant in addressing contemporary needs. These models were designed for a world shaped by monarchies, colonialism, and industrial revolutions. In 2024, Bangladesh faces unique material and moral challenges that call for a governance framework tailored to today’s realities and resilient enough to endure future uncertainties and political shifts.
Bangladesh requires a new governance model grounded in both ideal justice and practical justice. This model must strike a balance between autonomy, inclusivity, and accountability while respecting the country’s distinct cultural, religious, and identity-based characteristics. It is crucial for fostering unity.
The interim government’s immediate priorities should include: i) ensuring that high-profile detainees are brought to justice through a transparent judicial process; ii) curbing the influence of syndicates in key sectors such as food and housing; iii) enhancing representation from a broad range of stakeholders in decision-making; and iv) implementing a regular, systematic reporting process to keep the public informed about progress and challenges, fostering trust and transparency. Instead of waiting for another crisis to emerge, the government should address rising discontent, some of which may be driven by rival factions.
In addition to these immediate measures, the government must focus on developing a resilient governance model. A ‘Bangladesh 2.0’ framework should combine practical action with principles of justice and inclusivity, establishing institutions that uphold democratic values and learn from past mistakes. Long-term objectives should centre on strengthening institutions, creating clear accountability mechanisms, and ensuring diplomatic stability to support sustainable growth.
In international diplomacy, the government faces the challenge of maintaining strong relationships with key allies while upholding Bangladesh’s sovereignty and national interests. With Trump’s re-election and his close ties to Indian prime minister Modi, Bangladesh must navigate this complex terrain by highlighting its dedication to democratic values, stability, and regional cooperation. By reinforcing partnerships with the US on counterterrorism and climate issues while fostering respectful collaboration with India on economic and security matters, the government can safeguard Bangladesh’s interests amid evolving alliances.
Additionally, the interim government can capitalise on the unique asset of Professor Yunus and his vast international network to enhance Bangladesh’s diplomatic credibility. Balancing these global relationships with domestic priorities will necessitate skilled negotiation and a strong focus on the interests of the working people.
The interim government must adopt principled pragmatism — an approach that combines core values with flexible, practical solutions — to endure political shifts and build resilience. By addressing urgent needs and establishing the foundation for lasting institutions, the government can create a future that honours its people and remains steadfast in the face of future challenges.
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Md Habibul Haque is a lecturer in the department of English, ZH Sikder University of Science and Technology.
