Why Sheikh Hasina Faced Major Setbacks in Bangladesh in 2024: A Detailed Analysis
Introduction
In 2024, Bangladesh witnessed one of the most turbulent political years in recent memory. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who has ruled the country for over a decade under the banner of the Awami League, faced growing opposition, nationwide protests, and international scrutiny. Once hailed as a symbol of stability and economic progress, Hasina’s leadership is now being challenged like never before. This article explores the reasons behind Hasina's declining political control and the rising wave against her government in 2024.
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1. The Rise of Youth Protests and Public Discontent
One of the most significant blows to Hasina’s authority in 2024 came from Bangladesh’s student population. In July and August 2024, students from across the country, especially Dhaka University, led mass protests against the quota system in government jobs. The system was seen as unfair and discriminatory, sparking anger among the educated youth.
Social media platforms like Facebook and X (formerly Twitter) became hubs of activism. The youth demanded reform, merit-based opportunities, and transparency—things they believed the Hasina government had failed to deliver. The government’s crackdown on these peaceful protests only fueled the public's anger.
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2. Allegations of Election Rigging
Hasina's Awami League government won the January 2024 general elections amid widespread allegations of vote rigging and voter suppression. Major opposition parties, including the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), boycotted the polls, claiming there was no level playing field.
International observers, including the European Union and human rights groups, criticized the election process as undemocratic. This not only hurt Hasina’s global reputation but also sparked internal resistance within Bangladesh. Many citizens began questioning the legitimacy of her rule.
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3. Declining Economic Conditions
Despite earlier economic growth under Hasina's leadership, 2024 saw a significant economic slowdown. Key issues included:
High inflation
Currency devaluation
Rising unemployment
Decline in foreign remittances
The middle and lower-income groups were hit hardest, and many began blaming the government for mismanagement and corruption. With rising food and fuel prices, daily life became a struggle for millions, sparking further unrest and dissatisfaction.
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4. International Pressure and Sanctions
Hasina's government also came under increasing international pressure. The U.S. and several EU nations raised concerns over human rights violations, suppression of dissent, and lack of press freedom in Bangladesh.
In late 2024, the U.S. imposed visa restrictions on several Bangladeshi officials allegedly involved in election misconduct. These developments severely damaged the government's credibility on the world stage and intensified domestic calls for reform.
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5. Growing Influence of Opposition Forces
While the BNP remained fractured, other opposition groups and civil society movements started gaining momentum in 2024. Religious parties, student organizations, labor unions, and human rights activists found common ground in demanding Hasina’s resignation and the formation of a neutral caretaker government.
Leaders like Dr. Reza Kibria and Nurul Haque Nur emerged as popular faces of resistance, especially among younger generations. The public, increasingly frustrated with decades of one-party dominance, began exploring alternatives beyond the Awami League.
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6. Media Suppression and Public Backlash
Hasina’s government was accused of silencing dissenting voices through media censorship. Several journalists were arrested under the Digital Security Act, and critical news outlets faced shutdowns or heavy scrutiny.
Ironically, this media suppression backfired. Independent YouTube channels and underground networks gained popularity, spreading anti-government sentiment even further. Attempts to silence criticism only made Hasina appear more authoritarian in the eyes of the public.
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7. Lack of Democratic Space
Over the years, Hasina's critics accused her of eliminating any space for democratic opposition. Parliament became a one-party chamber, and most state institutions lost their independence. In 2024, the public began to realize the long-term effects of this democratic erosion.
Many now believe that a healthy democracy needs checks and balances—something missing under Hasina's regime. This realization has triggered a new wave of activism focused on restoring democracy and justice in Bangladesh.
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Conclusion: Is This the Beginning of the End for Hasina?
Sheikh Hasina’s leadership in 2024 is at a crossroads. From youth-led uprisings and economic grievances to international criticism and calls for democratic reform, the pressure on her government has reached an all-time high.
Whether Hasina steps down, calls for a fresh election, or tightens her grip on power remains uncertain. But one thing is clear: 2024 has changed the political landscape of Bangladesh forever. The demand for accountability, fairness, and democratic governance is louder than ever, and it may signal a major shift in the nation’s future leadership.
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