THINGS appear to be stabilising in Bangladesh after ousted prime minister Sheikh Hasina Wajed made a swift exit on Aug 5, following massive and bloody protests against her iron-fisted rule. Microfinance pioneer and Nobel laureate Dr Muhammad Yunus — hounded by Sheikh Hasina’s regime — has effectively taken charge as prime minister, though he is being referred to as the country’s ‘chief adviser’. Moreover, an interim cabinet has also been sworn in. There had been fears that the powerful military in Bangladesh would once again take the reins. Yet the cabinet consists mostly of civilians, including technocrats, rights activists and student leaders. Only one ex-military man is part of the set-up. The primary challenge before Dr Yunus and his colleagues is to ensure a peaceful democratic transition through free and fair elections at the first available opportunity. He has not yet given a date for the polls, only saying that they will be held “within a few months”. Of course, law and order are a prerequisite for fair polls. The anti-Hasina protests were marked by huge demonstrations, and often violent reprisals by the erstwhile Awami League government. But while the wounds may be fresh, the interim set-up must ensure there are no revenge attacks against those associated with the former administration. By all means, those involved in violence must face the law, but this should entail a transparent process. Moreover, the Awami League is a political reality in Bangladesh, and for the next polls to be credible, all parties must be given a level playing field, including AL.

There have also been reports of attacks on Hindu temples and houses over the past few days. The Bangladesh authorities should ensure that all minorities are protected under the new set-up. There is both hope and trepidation in Bangladesh. People are hopeful that they will be given political freedom and economic opportunities that many felt they were denied during Sheikh Hasina’s long rule. However, there are also worries that if the democratic transition falters, the military might step in and send the interim set-up packing, initiating a new round of martial rule. Therefore, once the dust settles, Dr Yunus should announce a date for fresh polls. This should close the door on speculation, and send a message to potential adventurers that the voters will determine Bangladesh’s future.

Published in Dawn, August 12th, 2024