Bangladesh is experiencing a seismic political shift, with Jamaat-e-Islami emerging as a significant force while the once-dominant Awami League (AL) and Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) struggle to maintain their foothold. Long defined by the rivalry between AL and BNP, the nation’s political landscape is now being redrawn, signaling both uncertainty and new possibilities for the country’s democratic trajectory.
The Decline of the Old Guards
For decades, Bangladeshi politics revolved around two major poles:
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Awami League (AL): Under Sheikh Hasina, the AL has held power for much of the past 15 years, emphasizing economic growth and infrastructural development. However, allegations of authoritarianism, electoral manipulation, and curbs on dissent have tarnished its image.
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Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP): Once a powerful opposition, BNP has been weakened by leadership crises, internal fragmentation, and its inability to mobilize mass movements effectively.
Both parties face growing public fatigue, particularly among younger voters who feel alienated by the entrenched political duopoly.
Jamaat’s Unexpected Resurgence
Jamaat-e-Islami, long sidelined due to its controversial past and bans on political participation, is now finding new momentum:
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Strategic Repositioning: Jamaat has softened its rhetoric, distancing itself from past controversies to appear as a legitimate political alternative.
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Grassroots Mobilization: The party has invested in local networks, welfare programs, and student groups, making inroads where mainstream parties are losing ground.
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Exploiting Discontent: Disillusionment with AL’s governance and BNP’s weakness has opened space for Jamaat to step forward.
This resurgence is reshaping Bangladesh’s political debate, forcing other parties to reconsider strategies.
Public Sentiment and the Youth Factor
The younger generation, which makes up a large portion of Bangladesh’s population, is driving the call for change, transparency, and accountability. Many youths see Jamaat as a fresh alternative—despite its controversial past—because it offers grassroots engagement that the old giants have failed to sustain.
However, critics argue that Jamaat’s rise may polarize society further, reviving old ideological battles. The challenge for Bangladesh lies in balancing the demand for new leadership with the need to safeguard democratic inclusivity.
Implications for Bangladesh’s Democracy
The rise of Jamaat as AL and BNP falter could lead to:
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More Competitive Elections: A three-pillar contest instead of two-party dominance.
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Policy Shifts: Greater focus on social welfare and religious identity in governance.
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Geopolitical Ripples: Neighboring India and global stakeholders will closely watch how Jamaat’s resurgence affects regional stability and foreign relations.
The political tides in Bangladesh are shifting. Jamaat’s resurgence amid the decline of AL and BNP underscores a nation at a crossroads—between old political legacies and emerging forces promising change. Whether this transformation strengthens democracy or deepens divides will depend on how all actors navigate the fragile balance of power.
