Wednesday, 04 December, 2024
Courtesy costs nothing but can indeed buy everything. Yet, in the realm of politics, can it achieve the tangible transformation of a nation’s political culture—especially one as deeply divided as Bangladesh, long ruled by the “Battling Begums”?
This question has ignited lively discussions across Bangladesh’s political landscape following a striking moment of civility by Nobel laureate Dr Muhammad Yunus during the Armed Forces Day celebration last Thursday. His warm reception of former Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia—unexpected and deeply symbolic—offered a rare glimpse of respect in a political arena defined by acrimony.
“We are proud to have brought Khaleda Zia here,” Dr. Yunus remarked, his words echoing beyond the ceremony. It was a historic moment: Khaleda Zia’s first appearance at an Armed Forces Day event in over a decade, signalling her return to the public sphere after years of imprisonment and political persecution.
Courtesy costs nothing but can indeed buy everything. Yet, in the realm of politics, can it achieve the tangible transformation of a nation’s political culture—especially one as deeply divided as Bangladesh, long ruled by the “Battling Begums”?
This question has ignited lively discussions across Bangladesh’s political landscape following a striking moment of civility by Nobel laureate Dr Muhammad Yunus during the Armed Forces Day celebration last Thursday. His warm reception of former Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia—unexpected and deeply symbolic—offered a rare glimpse of respect in a political arena defined by acrimony.
“We are proud to have brought Khaleda Zia here,” Dr. Yunus remarked, his words echoing beyond the ceremony. It was a historic moment: Khaleda Zia’s first appearance at an Armed Forces Day event in over a decade, signalling her return to the public sphere after years of imprisonment and political persecution.
For many, this gesture wasn’t merely courteous—it was a profound acknowledgement of resilience and an act of statesmanship.
Since its independence in 1971, Bangladesh’s politics has been marked by divisiveness and personal rivalries. Displays of mutual respect, such as the one exhibited by Dr. Yunus, are virtually unheard of. For Khaleda Zia’s supporters, who view her as a symbol of defiance against political oppression under Sheikh Hasina’s Awami League government, the event felt like a validation of their leader’s legacy.
Taylor Swift’s words, “We don't need to share the same opinions as others, but we need to be respectful,” aptly capture the essence of this moment. In a political culture riddled with hostility, Dr. Yunus’s actions demonstrated that civility and respect could coexist with disagreement—an example desperately needed in Bangladesh’s political discourse.
For decades, the rivalry between Sheikh Hasina and Khaleda Zia—dubbed the “Battling Begums”—has dominated Bangladeshi politics. Their fraught relationship is rooted in the nation’s history, with accusations of involvement in the assassinations of their respective predecessors, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and General Ziaur Rahman, fuelling their enmity. Yet, even this rivalry has seen moments of unity, most notably in 1987, when the two leaders temporarily allied against President Hussain Mohammad Ershad’s autocratic regime, leading to the restoration of democracy.
Dr. Yunus’s invitation to Khaleda Zia was not merely a polite gesture; it was laden with strategic undertones. As head of an interim government tasked with navigating a politically volatile climate, Dr Yunus faces mounting challenges, including opposition demands for elections and scepticism over his reform agenda. His actions appear aimed at diffusing tensions while reinforcing his image as a unifying figure.
Dr. Muhammad Yunus’s reform plan for a new Bangladesh envisions a governance model emphasizing transparency, accountability, and inclusive economic growth. As the head of the interim government, the Nobel laureate seeks to address systemic corruption, promote financial inclusion, and create a stable political environment conducive to sustainable development. Central to his agenda is fostering dialogue among political stakeholders and implementing structural reforms to ensure free and fair electoral processes.
However, his reform initiatives have faced resistance from major opposition parties, particularly the BNP, which demand an immediate national election under a neutral caretaker government. Opposition leaders argue that the interim administration lacks the mandate to initiate sweeping reforms and accuse Dr Yunus of using his platform to prolong his tenure. This has intensified political tensions, with street protests and public rallies becoming common expressions of dissent.
The opposition’s insistence on elections underscores their scepticism about the interim government’s impartiality and its ability to implement reforms equitably. As Dr Yunus seeks to balance his reform agenda with calls for an electoral roadmap, the challenge lies in fostering consensus to avert a deeper political crisis and ensure a transition that reflects the democratic aspirations of the Bangladeshi people.
The spectre of the “minus two” formula—a 2007 strategy designed to exclude both Sheikh Hasina and Khaleda Zia from politics—continues to loom over Bangladesh’s political discourse. Recent warnings by BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir against reviving this approach highlight the fragile trust between the interim government and opposition parties. In this context, Dr Yunus’s respectful overture to Khaleda Zia may also serve as a calculated move to build goodwill and ease political polariation.
In a recent address from London, BNP Vice Chairman Tarique Rahman expressed support for Dr. Muhammad Yunus's interim government and its reform initiatives. He emphasized the importance of unity among political forces to ensure the success of these reforms and the establishment of free and fair elections. Rahman also cautioned against elements attempting to destabilize the interim administration, urging vigilance to prevent any setbacks in the nation's progress.
Tarique Rahman also reiterated the party's urgent demand for immediate national elections under a neutral government. He emphasised the importance of calm, unity, and respect for all communities, urging BNP supporters to avoid acts of revenge or violence. Rahman highlighted the necessity of a democratic state governed by the rule of law, and he appealed for the protection of religious minorities and public institutions, including the police. His speech also underscored the party's commitment to ensuring free and fair elections, calling this effort a critical step toward restoring democracy in Bangladesh
Yet, scepticism persists. The BNP has renewed its demand for the withdrawal of all cases against acting chairman Tarique Rahman, framing his return as essential to establishing a fair political landscape in Bangladesh. BNP described the cases as politically driven, alleging they are part of an Awami League strategy to stifle dissent. However, the interim government has yet to act on the demand, deepening political tension. Meanwhile, critics speculate whether Dr Yunus's gestures are genuine demonstrations of goodwill or calculated moves to extend his administration’s tenure. Regardless of motives, the symbolic resonance of his actions remains significant.
In a recent address from London, BNP Vice Chairman Tarique Rahman expressed support for Dr Muhammad Yunus's interim government and its reform initiatives. He emphasized the importance of unity among political forces to ensure the success of these reforms and the establishment of free and fair elections.
Political scientists often emphasise that respect is a cornerstone of democratic societies, fostering dialogue and collaboration. In Bangladesh, where entrenched animosities frequently overshadow national interests, Dr. Yunus’s actions offer a glimmer of hope. By honouring Khaleda Zia with genuine courtesy, he has highlighted the transformative potential of respect as a tool for healing divisions and promoting stability.
While some may dismiss Dr. Yunus’s actions as political manoeuvring, they nonetheless signal a shift toward a more inclusive and harmonious political culture. In a nation shaped by decades of confrontation, a little respect might indeed pave the way for a brighter, united future in Bangladesh.
( The writer is the Editor of THE BANGLADESH EXPRESS, Chairman of BJFCI and former Information & Research Secretary-JASAS, Central Committee. He may be reached at [email protected])
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Courtesy costs nothing but can indeed buy everything. Yet, in the realm of politics, can it achieve the tangible transformation of a nation’s political culture—especially one as deeply divided as Bangladesh, long ruled by the “Battling Begums”?
This question has ignited lively discussions across Bangladesh’s political landscape following a striking moment of civility by Nobel laureate Dr Muhammad Yunus during the Armed Forces Day celebration last Thursday. His warm reception of former Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia—unexpected and deeply symbolic—offered a rare glimpse of respect in a political arena defined by acrimony.
“We are proud to have brought Khaleda Zia here,” Dr. Yunus remarked, his words echoing beyond the ceremony. It was a historic moment: Khaleda Zia’s first appearance at an Armed Forces Day event in over a decade, signalling her return to the public sphere after years of imprisonment and political persecution.
Courtesy costs nothing but can indeed buy everything. Yet, in the realm of politics, can it achieve the tangible transformation of a nation’s political culture—especially one as deeply divided as Bangladesh, long ruled by the “Battling Begums”?
This question has ignited lively discussions across Bangladesh’s political landscape following a striking moment of civility by Nobel laureate Dr Muhammad Yunus during the Armed Forces Day celebration last Thursday. His warm reception of former Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia—unexpected and deeply symbolic—offered a rare glimpse of respect in a political arena defined by acrimony.
“We are proud to have brought Khaleda Zia here,” Dr. Yunus remarked, his words echoing beyond the ceremony. It was a historic moment: Khaleda Zia’s first appearance at an Armed Forces Day event in over a decade, signalling her return to the public sphere after years of imprisonment and political persecution.
For many, this gesture wasn’t merely courteous—it was a profound acknowledgement of resilience and an act of statesmanship.
Since its independence in 1971, Bangladesh’s politics has been marked by divisiveness and personal rivalries. Displays of mutual respect, such as the one exhibited by Dr. Yunus, are virtually unheard of. For Khaleda Zia’s supporters, who view her as a symbol of defiance against political oppression under Sheikh Hasina’s Awami League government, the event felt like a validation of their leader’s legacy.
Taylor Swift’s words, “We don't need to share the same opinions as others, but we need to be respectful,” aptly capture the essence of this moment. In a political culture riddled with hostility, Dr. Yunus’s actions demonstrated that civility and respect could coexist with disagreement—an example desperately needed in Bangladesh’s political discourse.
For decades, the rivalry between Sheikh Hasina and Khaleda Zia—dubbed the “Battling Begums”—has dominated Bangladeshi politics. Their fraught relationship is rooted in the nation’s history, with accusations of involvement in the assassinations of their respective predecessors, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and General Ziaur Rahman, fuelling their enmity. Yet, even this rivalry has seen moments of unity, most notably in 1987, when the two leaders temporarily allied against President Hussain Mohammad Ershad’s autocratic regime, leading to the restoration of democracy.
Dr. Yunus’s invitation to Khaleda Zia was not merely a polite gesture; it was laden with strategic undertones. As head of an interim government tasked with navigating a politically volatile climate, Dr Yunus faces mounting challenges, including opposition demands for elections and scepticism over his reform agenda. His actions appear aimed at diffusing tensions while reinforcing his image as a unifying figure.
Dr. Muhammad Yunus’s reform plan for a new Bangladesh envisions a governance model emphasizing transparency, accountability, and inclusive economic growth. As the head of the interim government, the Nobel laureate seeks to address systemic corruption, promote financial inclusion, and create a stable political environment conducive to sustainable development. Central to his agenda is fostering dialogue among political stakeholders and implementing structural reforms to ensure free and fair electoral processes.
However, his reform initiatives have faced resistance from major opposition parties, particularly the BNP, which demand an immediate national election under a neutral caretaker government. Opposition leaders argue that the interim administration lacks the mandate to initiate sweeping reforms and accuse Dr Yunus of using his platform to prolong his tenure. This has intensified political tensions, with street protests and public rallies becoming common expressions of dissent.
The opposition’s insistence on elections underscores their scepticism about the interim government’s impartiality and its ability to implement reforms equitably. As Dr Yunus seeks to balance his reform agenda with calls for an electoral roadmap, the challenge lies in fostering consensus to avert a deeper political crisis and ensure a transition that reflects the democratic aspirations of the Bangladeshi people.
The spectre of the “minus two” formula—a 2007 strategy designed to exclude both Sheikh Hasina and Khaleda Zia from politics—continues to loom over Bangladesh’s political discourse. Recent warnings by BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir against reviving this approach highlight the fragile trust between the interim government and opposition parties. In this context, Dr Yunus’s respectful overture to Khaleda Zia may also serve as a calculated move to build goodwill and ease political polariation.
In a recent address from London, BNP Vice Chairman Tarique Rahman expressed support for Dr. Muhammad Yunus's interim government and its reform initiatives. He emphasized the importance of unity among political forces to ensure the success of these reforms and the establishment of free and fair elections. Rahman also cautioned against elements attempting to destabilize the interim administration, urging vigilance to prevent any setbacks in the nation's progress.
Tarique Rahman also reiterated the party's urgent demand for immediate national elections under a neutral government. He emphasised the importance of calm, unity, and respect for all communities, urging BNP supporters to avoid acts of revenge or violence. Rahman highlighted the necessity of a democratic state governed by the rule of law, and he appealed for the protection of religious minorities and public institutions, including the police. His speech also underscored the party's commitment to ensuring free and fair elections, calling this effort a critical step toward restoring democracy in Bangladesh
Yet, scepticism persists. The BNP has renewed its demand for the withdrawal of all cases against acting chairman Tarique Rahman, framing his return as essential to establishing a fair political landscape in Bangladesh. BNP described the cases as politically driven, alleging they are part of an Awami League strategy to stifle dissent. However, the interim government has yet to act on the demand, deepening political tension. Meanwhile, critics speculate whether Dr Yunus's gestures are genuine demonstrations of goodwill or calculated moves to extend his administration’s tenure. Regardless of motives, the symbolic resonance of his actions remains significant.
In a recent address from London, BNP Vice Chairman Tarique Rahman expressed support for Dr Muhammad Yunus's interim government and its reform initiatives. He emphasized the importance of unity among political forces to ensure the success of these reforms and the establishment of free and fair elections.
Political scientists often emphasise that respect is a cornerstone of democratic societies, fostering dialogue and collaboration. In Bangladesh, where entrenched animosities frequently overshadow national interests, Dr. Yunus’s actions offer a glimmer of hope. By honouring Khaleda Zia with genuine courtesy, he has highlighted the transformative potential of respect as a tool for healing divisions and promoting stability.
While some may dismiss Dr. Yunus’s actions as political manoeuvring, they nonetheless signal a shift toward a more inclusive and harmonious political culture. In a nation shaped by decades of confrontation, a little respect might indeed pave the way for a brighter, united future in Bangladesh.
( The writer is the Editor of THE BANGLADESH EXPRESS, Chairman of BJFCI and former Information & Research Secretary-JASAS, Central Committee. He may be reached at [email protected])
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