Sheikh Hasina’s re-election in Bangladesh’s 12th National Parliament elections stands as a testament to the country’s steadfast commitment to charting its own developmental course. The anticipated victory of the Awami League under Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s leadership signals her uninterrupted fourth term, defying external pressures and criticisms from Western entities.
This triumph not only underscores Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s resilience as a seasoned politician undeterred by external influences but also reaffirms her dedication to the chosen political trajectory and growth path. It mirrors the aspirations of numerous Global South nations, typified by Bangladesh, aspiring for domestic political stability, economic progress, and societal advancement while sidestepping the geopolitical competitions instigated by Western powers.
Bangladesh has experienced consistent economic growth since the turn of the 21st century, evolving into one of the world’s fastest-growing economies. This growth owes its success to several key factors: enduring political stability, a unified focus on economic advancement despite political rivalries, leveraging the labor force to become a leading apparel exporter after China, and a diplomatic approach that balances relations with major global powers.
Responding to China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), Prime Minister Hasina expressed Bangladesh’s eagerness to bolster ties with China, aligning with the vision of a “Golden Bangladesh.” The nation actively engages in the BRI’s construction and has witnessed extensive collaboration, with China undertaking numerous infrastructure and power projects in Bangladesh. However, this close economic cooperation has raised concerns and provoked unease among some nations due to their vigilance towards China’s growing influence.
Despite commendable economic strides, Bangladesh grapples with challenges such as a singular economic structure, vulnerability to external factors (such as the COVID-19 pandemic, global monetary policy shifts, and geopolitical conflicts), and the resultant economic downturn and wealth disparity. These issues impact social stability and electoral dynamics. However, the opposition’s lack of governance experience and weak leadership impede their ability to significantly challenge the ruling Awami League.
The primary pressure on Hasina and her party during the recent elections stemmed from external quarters, predominantly the US and its European allies. High-level delegations from the US and official statements from the State Department urged Bangladesh to conduct “free, fair, and peaceful” elections. The underlying objective was to push the Hasina government towards aligning with the US Indo-Pacific Strategy and potentially intervening in Myanmar’s internal affairs using Bangladesh as a base.
Despite these external pressures, Bangladesh conducted its elections as scheduled, signifying the government’s resistance to foreign influence. This outcome reflects proactive diplomatic efforts by the Hasina administration and the collective choice made by the Bangladeshi populace. Hasina’s re-election symbolizes Bangladesh’s pursuit of its unique developmental path, resonating with the aspirations of the Global South, emphasizing economic and societal progress, regional harmony, and a reluctance to engage in major power conflicts or adhere to the West’s dictated developmental paradigms.
This victory also reaffirms Bangladesh’s foreign policy, maintaining equilibrium among global powers. However, whether the US will accept its policy’s shortcomings towards Bangladesh remains uncertain. Should the US persist in meddling or instigate disruptions, its international credibility risks further erosion.
