Awami League Faces Challenges After Sheikh Hasina’s Ouster
The political turmoil in Bangladesh has left the Awami League, one of the country’s most powerful political parties, facing major challenges. Following the fall of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s government in August 2024, the party’s leaders have been forced into hiding, their properties destroyed, and their resources frozen. Despite these setbacks, many leaders remain hopeful about their return and the future of the party.
The Aftermath of Sheikh Hasina’s Fall
The ousting of Sheikh Hasina in August 2024 triggered chaos for the Awami League. This has resulted in the destruction of property, legal troubles for leaders, and a fractured party structure.
Key Events Following the Ouster:
- Attack on Leaders’ Properties:
- An Awami League MP’s home, shrimp factory, and farm were looted and burned.
- Senior party members saw their homes and businesses targeted and destroyed.
- Legal Troubles:
- Some leaders face dozens of legal cases, including allegations of murder.
- Many leaders are in hiding due to daily threats and the delivery of legal notices.
- Party Disintegration:
- A third of the party’s leadership is in jail.
- Another third has fled the country, while the rest are in hiding within Bangladesh.
Voices from the Underground
Despite the despair, Awami League leaders remain committed to their cause. Many have connected with Sheikh Hasina and are strategizing for the future while in hiding.
Leaders’ Perspectives:
- Morale Remains High:
- Leaders like 78-year-old Mohammel Haque, a senior Cabinet member, believe the party still has strong grassroots support.
- Haque has urged India to rally international support for the Awami League.
- Plans to Return:
- Some leaders are considering a symbolic return to Bangladesh on March 26, Independence Day.
- They hope this move will inspire party members and demonstrate their commitment.
- Faith in Justice:
- Many believe the “rule of law” will eventually return, allowing them to rebuild the party.
Challenges to Rebuilding the Party
The Awami League faces a long road to recovery, with several obstacles in its path.
Major Challenges:
- Loss of Resources:
- Bank accounts have been frozen, leaving leaders without funds to support themselves or their workers.
- Properties destroyed during the unrest have left many leaders without a base of operations.
- Political Opposition:
- Opposing parties and groups are using this opportunity to weaken the Awami League further.
- The destruction of voter lists and other electoral disruptions could make it harder for the party to regain its footing.
- Internal Divisions:
- After 15 years in power, the party admits there were governance lapses that contributed to its downfall.
- Reuniting and rebuilding trust within the party will be a significant challenge.
Hope for the Future
While the situation seems bleak, there is still hope among Awami League leaders and supporters.
Path to Recovery:
- International Support:
- The party looks to India and other allies to help mobilize international opinion in its favor.
- Leaders believe this support will pressure the current government to restore democratic processes.
- Grassroots Strength:
- Despite the crackdown, many leaders report that the party’s grassroots supporters remain loyal.
- Mobilizing these supporters will be key to the party’s recovery.
- Symbolic Actions:
- A planned return on Independence Day could reignite morale and unify the party.
- These symbolic actions show that the Awami League is not giving up.
Rebuilding Amid Adversity
The Awami League is facing one of its toughest periods following Sheikh Hasina’s ouster. The destruction of properties, legal challenges, and internal divisions have left the party scattered. However, leaders remain hopeful and committed to rebuilding the party and working for the people of Bangladesh again.
With international support, grassroots strength, and strategic actions, the Awami League aims to rise from the ashes. Whether this comeback is successful will depend on their ability to overcome the many challenges ahead.
