Bangladesh marks anniversary of Hasina’s ouster with pledges for a stronger democracy

DHAKA, Bangladesh — In a statement marking the anniversary of last year’s student-led uprising, Bangladesh’s interim leader Muhammad Yunus expressed confidence that the spirit of the movement would shape the future of the nation’s democracy.

Yunus, a Nobel Peace Prize laureate known for his work in microcredit markets, made the remarks as the country reflected on the removal of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who had fled to India. However, the event took place amidst increasing frustration over the interim government’s inability to restore order and curb political discord.

Joined by leaders of major political parties, Yunus unveiled a roadmap focused on national unity, democratic reforms, and inclusive governance. A new political party, the National Citizen Party, emerged from the student group that led the anti-Hasina movement and advocated for the agenda.

Notable figures from the Bangladesh Nationalist Party and the Jamaat-e-Islami party, including former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, attended the event. Zia, a rival of Hasina, leads the main opposition party expected to contest the upcoming election.

The Yunus-led administration has outlawed the former ruling party, which governed the country for 15 years until 2009. Hasina, who is in exile, is facing trial for alleged crimes against humanity during the student-led protests.

Despite efforts to schedule the election, disagreements persist among political parties. While Yunus proposed April for the election, Zia’s party prefers February. The involvement of the Jamaat-e-Islami and the National Citizen Party complicates the timeline.

The presence of the Jamaat-e-Islami party, the largest Islamist party in Bangladesh, was notable in Dhaka on Tuesday. Supporters of its student wing displayed flags of Bangladesh and Palestine.

Bangladesh faces a critical juncture as political factions grapple with the challenge of inclusive governance. The emergence of Islamist groups following Hasina’s removal has raised concerns.

Yunus has pledged a transparent election process, but critics question the credibility of the election without the participation of the Awami League, which maintains significant support.