Bangladesh

Dhaka | The Pak Global Pakistan

Bangladesh’s youth, who played a decisive role in toppling former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina during mass protests last year, are now approaching the upcoming February 12 parliamentary elections with mixed emotions — hope for democracy, but disappointment over limited political choices.

Sadman Mujtaba Rafid, a Dhaka University student who defied family pressure and police warnings to join the 2024 uprising, says the vision that inspired thousands of young protesters now feels distant.

“We imagined a country where everyone had equal opportunities regardless of gender, religion or background,” the 25-year-old said. “But meaningful reforms are still nowhere to be seen.”

Youth Led the Uprising, But Not the Political Transition

In 2024, tens of thousands of young Bangladeshis flooded the streets, driven by frustration over unemployment, economic stagnation and political repression. The movement eventually forced Sheikh Hasina into exile, ending her rule that began in 2008.

However, as Bangladesh prepares for its first election since the upheaval, many young voters feel disillusioned. The contest is largely shaping up between former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia’s Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and the Islamist Jamaat-e-Islami, with no strong new alternative emerging.

Political analyst Asif Shahan notes that voters under 30 — more than a quarter of the electorate — remain highly engaged and could strongly influence the outcome. “They are politically active and motivated to vote,” he said, “but their choices are limited.”

Student Party Struggles to Win Trust

Many Gen-Z voters initially pinned their hopes on the newly formed National Citizens Party (NCP), created by leaders of the student-led protests. However, its alliance with Jamaat-e-Islami has weakened its appeal among youth seeking a clean break from past politics.

“They’ve lost the moral edge,” said Shudrul Amin, a university student. “People wanted a fresh start, not a choice between old politicians and ideological compromises.”

Minority students have also expressed concerns. “Politics still feels stuck in an ‘either-or’ situation,” said Shama Debnath, a Hindu student in Dhaka. “There’s no bold new vision.”

Interim Government Under Fire

The interim administration led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus has also faced criticism, particularly over rising mob violence and attacks on journalists and minorities.

“The spirit of the July revolution feels lost,” said Hema Chakma, a Buddhist student. “Violence has increased, and there’s little accountability.”

Economic challenges — the main trigger of last year’s protests — remain unresolved, further dampening enthusiasm.

Despite Doubts, Youth Ready to Vote

Even with frustrations, young Bangladeshis remain determined to participate in the democratic process. A recent youth poll showed voter willingness at nearly 97% among those aged 18 to 35, with support split almost evenly between BNP and Jamaat.

“There will be real voting this time, and that matters,” said student activist Umama Fatema. “Only a stable, elected government can move the country forward.”

The election will also include a national referendum on reforms such as term limits for prime ministers, increased judicial independence, and stronger election oversight — measures many young voters see as critical.

New Voices Refuse to Quit

Some reform-minded candidates are still trying to challenge the status quo. Doctor Tasnim Jara, running as an independent after leaving the NCP over its Islamist alliance, says meaningful change will take time.

“The uprising proved ordinary people can enter politics,” she said. “A genuine alternative won’t appear overnight — but hope is still alive.”

That hope resonates with voters like H.M. Amirul Karim, a literature student, who says, “Even if not now, the dream of a new political system will come true. I’m not ready to give up.”