Sheikh Hasina Leaves Behind Complicated Legacy

In a significant political shift, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has resigned, prompting the formation of an interim government in Bangladesh amid a deepening political crisis. Hasina, once celebrated as a global democracy icon, concluded her tenure by reinforcing autocratic policies that characterized her later years in power. The Awami League, her political party, is expected to be excluded from the interim government, as initial negotiations have not included its leaders. The political landscape in Bangladesh is further complicated by the historical context of its leadership. Khaleda Zia, head of the opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), is the widow of Ziaur Rahman, a military figure involved in the 1975 coup. The military, which has largely refrained from political involvement since 2008, is now tasked with overseeing the interim government’s formation, raising questions about the future of democratic governance in the country. India, which has maintained a close partnership with Hasina and the Awami League, faces challenges in navigating the new political environment. With Hasina's departure, India must reassess its relationships with various political stakeholders, including the BNP, which it has historically distanced itself from. The implications of this political upheaval extend beyond Bangladesh, as Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi considers a potential visit to Ukraine, reflecting the complex geopolitical dynamics in the region. As the situation unfolds, the duration and stability of the interim government remain uncertain, leaving Bangladesh at a crossroads in its political journey.