Students Take Charge in Bangladesh After Political Upheaval

In a remarkable turn of events in Bangladesh, students have stepped into the void left by a police strike, donning neon vests and wielding sticks and umbrellas to direct traffic. This grassroots movement gained momentum following the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who fled to India via military helicopter after being ousted by a swift student-led uprising. The students, who had previously protested against Hasina's regime, are now assuming leadership roles in an interim government, marking a significant shift in the country’s political landscape. The newly formed government, led by Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus, has been tasked with the critical responsibility of organizing elections. Zillur Rahman, executive director of the Center for Governance Studies, emphasized the importance of student involvement in governance, suggesting that every ministry should include a student representative. This unprecedented inclusion reflects the students' belief in their capability to drive national change and reform institutions they claim have been compromised by the longstanding dominance of the Awami League and the Bangladesh Nationalist Party. As the interim government seeks to establish a neutral stance, the students are determined to distance themselves from traditional political affiliations, advocating for a fresh approach to governance. They express a desire for significant societal change and a new way of living, indicating a generational shift in political engagement. The pressing question remains: when will new elections be held, as the nation grapples with the aftermath of recent turmoil? For now, the focus is on stabilizing the country and addressing the challenges ahead.