Photo : Messenger
As the year draws to a close, Bangladesh finds itself in the midst of a political storm, marked by both domestic challenges and international pressures. The ruling Awami League has navigated a turbulent year, facing a formidable movement orchestrated by the BNP-Jamaat alliance on the home front while grappling with foreign demands, particularly from the United States and its allies, for a transparent and inclusive election.
The domestic political landscape has been marred by intense protests and violence on one side, met with government crackdowns, oppression, arrests, and the emergence of the 'Kings Party' on the other. The repercussions of this political turmoil have not only strained diplomatic relations between Bangladesh and the United States but have also brought China, Russia, and India closer to the nation.
The farewell year leading up to the twelfth national parliamentary elections has followed the familiar script of corruption allegations, conflicts, and political maneuvering. The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), a key opposition force, has witnessed arrests of its top leaders, escalating tensions within the political arena.
The impact of the U.S.'s new visa policy was palpable on the Awami League government, forcing concessions such as allowing opposition parties to conduct political programmes in the run-up to the 12th parliamentary polls. The events of 2023 have underscored a clear divide among foreign powers, challenging Bangladesh's traditional stance of a "balanced foreign policy."
India, China, and Russia have traditionally supported the Bangladesh government, while the United States and its Western allies have sought to influence the nation towards free, fair, and participatory elections. The U.S.'s visa restrictions, announced on May 27, targeted those seen as obstructing the democratic process. U.S. Ambassador Peter Haas actively engaged in Bangladesh's political landscape, signalling a keen interest in American influence.
Amidst these dynamics, Russia accused U.S. Ambassador Peter Haas of interference, leading to a counter from the U.S., citing intentional misinformation by Russia. Strained relations with the United States have contrasted with significant developments in ties with China and Russia, with Bangladesh's economic relations with the U.S. coming under scrutiny.
The year also saw an active BNP, but events took a sudden turn after the violent incident of October 28. Subsequent to that night, there was an unrelenting wave of arrests against BNP leaders and activists, some facing legal action and charges in old narcotics cases. Judgements were passed against BNP leaders, including Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia, acting Chairman Tarique Rahman, and his wife Zobaida Rahman.
In response to the BNP's strike call, incidents of arson and violence occurred, resulting in casualties. Simultaneously, the Awami League, while implementing an extensive political plan, saw the Election Commission taking steps for the twelfth national parliamentary elections, albeit with several parties, including the BNP, choosing to opt out.
From an economic standpoint, 2023 presented significant challenges for Bangladesh. The year was marked by inflationary pressure and a devaluation of the local currency against the dollar. It experienced a reduction in the currency's value, a decline in foreign currency reserves, a severe dollar crisis, an increase in non-performing loans, liquidity issues in banks, and a decrease in private investments attributable to political unrest. These economic hurdles have left Bangladesh's economy in a critical state as the year concludes.
As the year concludes, Bangladesh stands at a crossroads, navigating complex geopolitical dynamics, internal strife, and the anticipation of pivotal parliamentary elections. The political landscape remains intricate, reflecting the intricate dance between local and international pressures that have defined the nation's narrative throughout 2023.
Messenger/Disha
