Government Exit Analysis : Is Dr Yunus going to exit? Is power going to slip out of his hands?

Government Exit Analysis

Is Dr Yunus going to exit? Is power going to slip out of his hands?

Read in Bangla here 👉: বাংলায় পড়তে এখানে ক্লিক করুন

 The Inevitable Cycle of Power: Why Governments Must Embrace a Dignified Exit

No government in any country lasts forever, nor can it. History is filled with the rise and fall of empires, from the dynasties of ancient China to the great rulers of India like the Mauryas and the Mughals. Modern nation-states, where the power ultimately resides with the people, are no different. Every government, no matter how strong or influential, must eventually step down. The manner in which it does so can either uphold democracy and stability or push a nation into chaos.

The Importance of a Smooth Transition

In developed democracies, governments focus on ensuring a smooth transition of power rather than desperately clinging to their position. This approach is not just in the interest of the government but, more importantly, for the nation’s well-being. A disorderly departure from power creates instability, weakens the economy, and disrupts social harmony. If a government refuses to exit gracefully, the country pays the price, often losing precious time that could have been spent on progress and development.

Bangladesh, in its 55-year history, has seen few smooth transitions. The only exception was in 2001 when the Awami League and Jatiya Party government stepped down consensually. The primary reason for this recurring problem is not just the politicians but also civil society itself, which has not yet matured enough to believe in an honorable exit from power. This issue extends beyond politics into all spheres of institutional power in Bangladesh.

Sheikh Hasina’s Abrupt Departure and Its Causes

The recent fall of Sheikh Hasina’s government was neither unexpected nor unprecedented. However, its abrupt and abnormal nature reflects a long-standing political culture in Bangladesh. Even the administration that succeeded her, backed by the army chief, has yet to outline a clear exit strategy. This is symptomatic of a broader issue—Bangladeshi politics has never embraced the idea of voluntarily relinquishing power.

Sheikh Hasina’s downfall can be attributed to three key factors:

1. Failure to Hold Inclusive Elections: Elections under her rule, both national and local, lacked inclusivity, weakening her government’s legitimacy.
2. Economic Mismanagement: The inability to control the rising prices of essential goods created significant discontent among the middle and lower-income classes.
3. Weak Leadership Appointments: The appointment of incompetent individuals to key positions in her party and government undermined its effectiveness and credibility.

Instead of fostering a democratic culture, Sheikh Hasina moved away from it after securing her second term. Her reliance on one-sided elections and vested interest groups weakened her government’s political authority. This, in turn, led to economic instability and rampant corruption, ultimately alienating the general public.

The Tacitus Trap: When Leaders Lose Public Trust

Sheikh Hasina’s fall can also be explained through the concept of the Tacitus Trap, a historical phenomenon where a leader becomes so unpopular that even their positive actions are perceived negatively by the public. The behavior and rhetoric of her party leaders—such as Obaidul Quader, Hasan Mahmud, and Arafat—further cemented this trap. Their statements and actions fueled public resentment, making it impossible for the government to regain trust.

The irony is that the current interim administration is already falling into the same trap. With reckless decision-making and a failure to address public concerns, they risk repeating the same mistakes. Many people are now beginning to say, “We were better off before” or “The country cannot function without Sheikh Hasina.” This shift in public sentiment is a direct consequence of poor governance and a lack of a coherent political strategy.

The Urgent Need for an Inclusive Election

The key to restoring stability in Bangladesh lies in ensuring an inclusive and fair election. The current government must recognize that using force to suppress opposition or manipulate electoral processes will only backfire. Instead of silencing dissent, they should allow democratic processes to take their natural course.

Moreover, the interim administration should focus on restoring law and order, addressing economic challenges, and regaining public trust. Leaders must acknowledge that true governance is not about holding onto power but ensuring that power transitions smoothly and democratically.

A Nation at a Crossroads

Bangladesh stands at a critical juncture. The choices made by those in power today will determine the country’s future trajectory. A one-sided election will only lead to further political turmoil. The government must learn from the past and prioritize national stability over short-term political gains.

Ultimately, a dignified exit from power is not a sign of weakness but of wisdom. The sooner political leaders in Bangladesh accept this reality, the better it will be for the nation and its people. Only through a culture of democratic transitions can Bangladesh truly progress and establish itself as a mature and stable democracy.