Ever since the downfall of the Awami League establishment, propelled by a significant uprising driven by students, speculation has been rampant among common folk. Is the time finally ripe to witness an alternative to the typical political powers, that are more akin to family dynasties? The National Citizens’ Committee, birthed as a progressive force, has currently committed itself to fostering the government’s progress, holding it to high standards, dealing with the remnants of the previous oppressive regime, making impactful reforms and shaping public policy.
The spokesperson for the National Citizens’ Committee has finally addressed the circulating rumors of initiating a new political movement, providing a resolute confirmation. He proclaimed on Victory Day, ‘In alignment with our mission, the National Citizens’ Committee, in unison with the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, will usher in a refreshing political alternative within the coming two months.’ A significant groundwork has been carried out throughout the country with the establishment of nearly a hundred committees in various districts and sub-districts. However, there’s still the looming question – can they stand their ground against the seasoned political entities such as the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP)?
‘Our journey is one driven by a dedication to exemplary governance,’ declares their spokesperson. Expressing an eagerness to fill in as the foremost opposition party if necessary, they seem to be setting solid political aspirations. The dilemma, however, remains – has the situation evolved to the extent that helps them achieve this goal? Recent surveys shed some light on this.
A recent poll by the BRAC Institute of Governance and Development (BIGD) reflected the indecisiveness of the populace, with a significant 38% of Bangladeshis uncertain of their choice in case of immediate elections. On the note of new political parties, a mere 2% affirmed they would place their votes for the fledgling groups led by students. This raises concerns about the inherent challenges the emergent parties face, at a time when the political landscape is dominated by established entities.
Adding complexity are the recent developments where key leaders of the July movement have taken advisory roles in the interim government. This marries the dual roles of governance and party groundwork, leading to criticisms around potential conflicts of interest. Is it possible for students to contribute to both effectively, without channeling governmental resources for party activities? Or are we witnessing the inception of a ‘King’s Party’, a phrase loaded with negative connotations in the political sphere?
Rebutting these criticisms, the National Students’ Committee maintains an assertive stand that the government is not forming a party, instead, it’s the students. Successfully transitioning into a formidable political force would largely hinge on how effectively they create a strong grassroots infrastructure and align with potential coalition partners. This would involve necessitating a visible distance from the interim government, perhaps even stepping down from governmental roles.
Considering these obstacles, the students could potentially explore political alliances but are currently operating independently. Asked about potential alliances, the joint spokesperson for the National Citizens’ Committee responding, ‘Politics can’t exist in isolation; alliances are imperative. However, a definite answer to this query will be available in due time. As of now, we’re focusing on our individual growth.’
A clear signal of the challenges this new political force is encountering has already surfaced, linked to a controversial statement from the National Citizens’ Committee. He appealed for ‘maximum cooperation’ from deposed councillors across the city corporations and municipalities in the formation of this new party. This statement has triggered fierce debates on social media concerning the integrity of their intent, especially with respect to rehabilitation.
The committee vehemently defends its position, insisting the call was not for rehabilitation but a general appeal. Yet, established political entities like the BNP are pushing for expedited elections, while the National Citizens’ Committee shows a preference for a slower process. Their reasoning is that elections should be postponed until justice is served for the oppressive acts of the Awami League. While this argument holds moral and ethical weight, there is a belief that the underlying motive is to buy time for party organization.
Experts suggest that the new student-led political party needs to focus on securing strong grassroots support to establish itself as a viable option. For now, their support predominantly lies amongst urban populations and university students. They must move away from short-term populist policies towards a long-term strategic plan which presents them as a tenable alternative.
‘We aim to foster an exemplary governance model and even play the role of the primary opposition party, if the circumstances dictate so,’ reaffirmed the spokesperson of the committee. However, dismantling a government is a distinctly different challenge than governing a nation. Thus, the students might face a rocky road when it comes to garnering wide-scale public support.
Against the backdrop of a complex political ecosystem like ours, with entrenched political entities like BNP or AL maintaining connections to various societal, bureaucratic, and administrative stakeholders, gaining mass acceptance is no easy task. This fact was stressed by several political observers who believe that it’s easier said than done.
In the historical context of Bangladesh’s politics, parties with nationwide reach such as the Awami League and BNP have enjoyed unhampered dominance for over four decades. Other parties have tried intermittently to break into the political mainstream but none have succeeded in morphing into a large-scale entity comparable to the big two. Yet, if democracy is to truly thrive in the absence of Awami League, a robust opposition competent enough to challenge the long-standing BNP is absolutely essential.
Failure to establish this could inadvertently lay the groundwork for another autocracy, a risk that Bangladesh would ill-afford to take. However, the proposed new political entity isn’t without fault. Critics argue that it may be inappropriate for them to found a political party and participate in elections, given that three of their members are part of the interim government.
As a result, political experts suggest that the students’ party should be formed only after the current election. This tactical move would also dispel any doubts that the July movement was driven by a hidden political agenda. In light of recent facts, one cannot help but contemplate the intricate, challenging journey the new student-led party has embarked upon.