Beyond rivalries: BNP’s legacy and responsibility in restoring democracy

Bangladesh finds itself at a historic crossroads. The fall of Sheikh Hasina's authoritarian regime, brought about by a mass uprising, has opened a new chapter for the nation. The oppressive machinery of her rule has been dismantled, offering hope for a democratic rebirth. Yet, this opportunity comes with significant challenges. 

To seize the moment and rebuild the country, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), as the largest political force, bears the critical responsibility of promoting national unity and guiding the democratic transition. 

Historically, the Bangladeshi people have looked to the BNP during periods of crisis to restore democracy and stability. Following the fall of Baksal in 1975 and the autocratic Ershad regime in 1990, the nation entrusted the BNP to lead the transition toward democracy. Similarly, after the fall of Sheikh Hasina's fascist rule in 2024, public expectations are high for the BNP to steer the country toward a democratic revival.

The BNP must now lead by example in fostering inclusivity and collaboration. Smaller political parties like Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) and emerging movements such as the National Citizens' Committee (NCC) are not adversaries but essential allies in building a vibrant multi-party democracy. Embracing these groups as partners, rather than competitors, will strengthen governance and reinforce democratic resilience. 

This aligns with BNP founder Ziaur Rahman's vision of a political system where diverse voices coexist, creating a robust system of checks and balances. Supporting the growth of these entities will not only ensure the democratic transition remains representative but also position BNP as a leader committed to unity and progress.

Sheikh Hasina's tenure as Prime Minister will be remembered as one of the most repressive periods in Bangladesh's history. Her government systematically dismantled democracy, weaponised state institutions, and ruled through fear and coercion. Political opponents, particularly the BNP and Jamaat-e-Islami, were subjected to extrajudicial killings, enforced disappearances, and imprisonment on fabricated charges. 

These targeted actions decimated the organizational capacities of opposition forces. Independent voices in journalism and civil society were silenced, creating an environment of pervasive fear.

The July massacre of student protesters, where thousands were killed or maimed, symbolises the depth of her regime's brutality. Allegations of her direct involvement in political assassinations further underscore her unrelenting grip on power. 

Under Hasina, the judiciary, law enforcement agencies, and the election commission became instruments of party control, eroding public trust in governance. State institutions were transformed into partisan tools that facilitated election rigging, suppressed dissent, and legitimised her authoritarian practices. Elections turned into farcical displays of manipulation, ensuring AL's dominance while propping up compliant parties like the Jatiya Party to create a controlled opposition and marginalise genuine democratic forces.

Despite Hasina's ouster, the AL remains a potent threat to Bangladesh's democratic future. Its deeply entrenched networks, built through decades of patronage and corruption, could enable a swift resurgence. A return to AL's authoritarianism would not only undo the progress achieved but also plunge the nation back into chaos.

Allowing AL to participate in future elections without significant accountability would be disastrous. The party's history demonstrates an unwavering commitment to fascist principles, characterised by suppression of dissent, manipulation of democratic processes, and corruption. To ensure a lasting democratic transition, the remnants of AL's influence must be dismantled, and its key figures held accountable.

The interim government, led by Nobel Peace Laureate Prof. Muhammad Yunus, represents a unique opportunity for reform. With no vested political interests, this administration is focused on laying the groundwork for a democratic transition. Key priorities include restoring judicial independence, depoliticising law enforcement, and ensuring credible elections. Justice for the atrocities committed during Hasina's rule is also central to this mission, providing closure for victims and deterring future abuses.

These reforms require time, and the BNP must exercise measured patience to allow the interim government to carry out its crucial work. With the party's widespread support, it is poised to emerge victorious once free and fair elections are held. However, any attempt to hasten the process or cast doubt on the interim government's efforts could risk undermining the broader goal of a stable and lasting democratic transition. 

By extending its unwavering support to the interim government, the BNP has the opportunity to reaffirm its dedication to the national interest and prioritise the long-term well-being of the country over immediate political aspirations.

In the evolving political landscape, relatively smaller parties like JI and NCC are not threats to the BNP. While political rivalry is natural and necessary in a democracy, these groups should not be viewed as enemies. Rather, they are critical to building a vibrant multiparty system, a cornerstone of democracy envisioned by BNP founder Ziaur Rahman.

Ziaur Rahman championed the idea of a multi-party democracy where diverse political voices coexist, creating a system of checks and balances. The BNP must honour this legacy by fostering an environment that encourages the growth of smaller parties. A strong JI or an emerging political force like NCC can serve as a credible opposition, preventing the monopolisation of power and enhancing democratic resilience.

The emergence of new political movements, particularly those led by the student leaders who spearheaded the uprising against Hasina, is a testament to the people's yearning for change. These groups represent the aspirations of a new generation, untainted by the political baggage of the past.

The BNP has nothing to fear from their rise. On the contrary, a thriving multi-party system will strengthen governance and accountability. The BNP's position as the largest political force ensures its dominance in the immediate future. Rather than stifling the growth of these movements, the BNP should welcome their participation, viewing them as partners in the shared goal of nation-building.

BNP's path forward lies in embracing the principles of inclusivity and cooperation. JI, with its grassroots support, and NCC, representing new voices, are essential allies in this journey. By supporting their growth and ensuring their legitimate participation in politics, the BNP can uphold Ziaur Rahman's vision of a thriving multi-party democracy.

This vision also requires rebuilding national institutions. The judiciary, election commission, and law enforcement agencies must be restored to their rightful roles as impartial arbiters of justice and order. These reforms will create a level playing field for all political actors, ensuring that democracy is representative and resilient.

BNP's leadership, as the largest political force poised to take charge after free and fair elections, must embrace unity, patience, and strategic collaboration. Efforts to marginalise smaller parties or display impatience could undermine public trust and fragment the democratic movement. Instead, by supporting the interim government's reforms and fostering partnerships with other political entities, the BNP can solidify its role as a unifying force dedicated to the nation's democratic future.

The fall of Sheikh Hasina's regime marks a pivotal moment in Bangladesh's history—one that demands visionary leadership from the BNP. As the largest political force poised to lead, the BNP must address the systemic flaws left behind, deliver justice for past atrocities, and advance social and economic progress. By fostering alliances, supporting democratic reforms, and rebuilding trust in national institutions, the BNP can honour the sacrifices made in the struggle for freedom and justice.

This is a historic opportunity to move beyond the shadows of authoritarianism and usher in an era of accountability, democracy, and shared progress. By embracing inclusivity, championing multi-party democracy, and prioritising national unity, the BNP can lay the foundation for a democratic and prosperous Bangladesh.

Dr Sibbir Ahmad is a Postdoctoral Fellow at the Department of Economics, University of Virginia.

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions and views of The Business Standard.