Sheikh Hasina, the daughter of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, ascended to power in Bangladesh with a vision to uplift her nation. Under her leadership, Bangladesh witnessed remarkable economic growth, transforming from a struggling country to a thriving economic center in South Asia. Her policies, especially those aimed at increasing exports and empowering Bengali women, positioned Bangladesh as a formidable player in the region. The country’s GDP and growth rate even surpassed those of India, and the Bangladeshi taka gained significant strength, leaving the Indian rupee trailing in comparison. However, despite these achievements, Hasina’s governance took a turn that many now view as dictatorial. This shift can be attributed to three significant missteps that have cast a shadow over her earlier successes.

One of the most critical errors in Sheikh Hasina’s tenure was her approach to dissent. In any democratic society, opposition and alternative leadership play a crucial role in ensuring that the government remains accountable to its people. However, in Bangladesh under Hasina, the absence of a robust opposition has led to an environment where democracy is slowly eroding into dictatorship. Without any checks and balances, Hasina’s administration began imposing various restrictions, particularly on the media. The freedom of the press, which is essential for the functioning of a democracy, was severely curtailed. The government did not hesitate to shut down the internet or silence critical voices, creating an atmosphere of fear and repression.

This strategy of stifling dissent, while appearing to be a demonstration of strength, was actually a sign of weakness. By suppressing alternative viewpoints, the government created a hostile undercurrent in society. The growing discontent among the populace, simmering just below the surface, threatens to erupt and cause widespread damage. The lesson here is clear: in a truly democratic society, the government must welcome dissent and engage with opposing views rather than suppressing them. Unfortunately, Hasina’s approach only served to fuel resentment and opposition, setting the stage for greater unrest.

The second significant misstep in Hasina’s governance was her stubborn insistence on continuing the controversial quota system. Initially introduced by Sheikh Mujibur Rahman in 1972, the quota system was intended to benefit those who had made sacrifices for Bangladesh’s independence. However, over the years, this system became increasingly outdated and unfair, as it began to benefit the descendants of freedom fighters at the expense of other deserving individuals.

Despite widespread opposition, particularly from the youth, Hasina chose to uphold this system. In 2018, the country witnessed massive protests the quota system, with young people demanding its abolition. Instead of addressing their concerns and taking credit for ending an outdated and unjust policy, Hasina resorted to judicial notices and even threatened the protestors. Her broadcast speech on national media, where she questioned what the “volunteers” would do if the special quota was not given to the children of freedom fighters, was particularly damaging. By labeling these young protestors as traitors to the country, she not only alienated a significant portion of the population but also deepened the divide between the government and the people.

The quota system, which could have been reformed or abolished to reflect the changing times, became a symbol of Hasina’s unwillingness to adapt and her determination to maintain the status quo, regardless of the cost. This decision further tarnished her reputation and fueled the perception that her government was out of touch with the needs and aspirations of the people.

The most disastrous mistake made by Sheikh Hasina was her ruthless use of state power against the youth of her country. In the 21st century, where freedom of expression and peaceful protest are considered fundamental rights, Hasina’s government chose to respond to student protests with violence. The world watched in horror as videos surfaced showing armed government officials firing live bullets at unarmed students, simply for raising their voices and demanding their rights.

This brutal crackdown on dissent not only destroyed the trust between the government and its citizens but also irrevocably damaged Hasina’s legacy. The use of violence against students, who are the future of any nation, is unforgivable and stands as a stark reminder of how power can corrupt even the most well-intentioned leaders. Hasina, once celebrated for her economic achievements, is now viewed by many as a dictator who will stop at nothing to maintain her grip on power.

Sheikh Hasina’s journey from a revered leader to a feared dictator is a tragic tale of how power, if unchecked, can lead to the downfall of even the most successful leaders. Her initial successes in economic development and empowerment of women are undeniable, but her subsequent actions have overshadowed these achievements. By suppressing dissent, upholding an unjust quota system, and using violence against her own people, Hasina has alienated herself from the very citizens she once sought to uplift. The lessons from her governance are clear: in a democracy, power must always be balanced with accountability, and leaders must be willing to listen to their people, even when the voices are critical. Without this balance, democracy can quickly descend into dictatorship, as it has in Bangladesh under Sheikh Hasina’s rule.