Explainer: What is ‘1/11-styled government’

The term "1/11-styled government" has often surfaced in parlance ever since 11 January 2007 when a military-backed caretaker government took over amidst political turmoil and violence. 

The turmoil revolved around a deadlock between the two major political parties – the Awami League (AL) and Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) – over the fairness of upcoming national elections to be held under the then president Iajuddin Ahmed.

Iajuddin had become the president in 2002. When the political stalemate came to a head just before elections, another problem emerged. 

Although the immediate past chief justice, in this case Justice KM Hasan, was supposed to be appointed as Chief Adviser for the caretaker government according to the Constitution, he declined. 

Five other men were considered for the post, before it was eventually passed to Iajuddin. 

Sheikh Hasina and her allies demanded Ahmed's resignation owing to him serving under the BNP, but he declined.

Caretaker govt: How Hasina killed a system that ensured free and fair elections

At the last minute, Hasina, the AL and its allies withdrew from the elections. 

After declaring a state of emergency, Iajuddin stepped down. 

Fakhruddin Ahmed, a former World Bank economist, was then installed with military backing.

This government was initially welcomed by the public for its promise of reform, stability, and a fair electoral process.

The 1/11 government set out to conduct various reforms to tackle corruption. 

In their drive, high-profile politicians, businessmen, and bureaucrats, including Khaleda Zia and Sheikh Hasina were arrested.

This gave birth to the so-called 'minus 2 formula'.

Controversy begins

Although notable for implementing electoral reforms, updating voter rolls and introducing a photo-based voter ID system, the caretaker government's arrest of the two top political leaders courted a ton of controversy.

Furthermore, the government also exceeded its constitutional tenure, staying in power for nearly two years instead of overseeing an election in three months.

This lengthy stay stoked questions of suppressing democracy.

Accusations of suppressing political activities, controlling the media and curtailing fundamental rights also rose.

Many further alleged the caretaker government was planning to introduce a "third force" political movement – which eventually failed – by sidelining the two dominant parties.

How it ended

Hasina and Khaleda were soon released.

Under growing pressure, the caretaker government eventually held elections on 29 December 2008, where the Awami League, led by Sheikh Hasina, secured a landslide victory.

Under Hasina's reign, the caretaker system was also scrapped.

Till date, the 1/11 government remains controversial in Bangladesh's political history.