Hasina’s Return, Economic Revival and Reset with India: Inside BNP’s Vision for a New Bangladesh
As Bangladesh turns a decisive political page with the BNP securing a majority and Tarique Rahman stepping into the Prime Minister’s office after nearly two decades abroad, expectations are sky-high — and so are the challenges.
In a wide-ranging conversation, senior BNP leader and Member of Parliament Dr. Abdul Moyeen Khan, a key policy voice and close confidant of the Prime Minister, outlined the road ahead for the new government.
From rebuilding a battered economy to redefining ties with India and safeguarding democratic institutions, the message was clear: Bangladesh is entering a rebuilding phase.
Three Immediate Priorities: Economy, Democracy, Institutions
According to Dr. Khan, the government’s first and most urgent task is economic recovery.
He alleged that vast sums of money were siphoned out of the country in recent years, industries suffered serious damage, and political power became entangled with business interests.
“The economy must be stabilized,” he emphasized, adding that confidence must return to investors and ordinary citizens alike.
Second, he pointed to the need to restore a functioning democratic framework. Bangladesh, he said, was founded on democratic aspirations, and the people have consistently struggled to protect that spirit.
The third pillar of reform involves rebuilding state institutions — from the bureaucracy and judiciary to the banking sector. “Institutional collapse weakens democracy. Everything needs restructuring and transparency,” he said.
Resetting Relations with India
Relations between Bangladesh and India have cooled in recent months.
Dr. Khan attributed the strain to policies under the previous Awami League government and reiterated the BNP’s commitment to a balanced foreign policy rooted in the principle of “friendship with all, malice towards none.”
He stressed that diplomacy requires mutual effort. While Bangladesh is prepared to move forward constructively, he suggested that India must also reassess its approach.
“Foreign policy cannot work one-sidedly. Warmth must come from both ends,” he noted.
The Sheikh Hasina Question
The continued presence of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in India remains a sensitive issue.
Dr. Khan acknowledged that emotions are strong in Bangladesh regarding her leadership, which he claimed harmed the nation’s democratic fabric.
When asked whether the government would formally seek her return, he clarified that the administration is not driven by vengeance.
“Our Prime Minister has made it clear — this is not politics of hatred. If there have been injustices, the matter will be addressed through legal processes,” he said.
Minority Safety and the Extremism Debate
Addressing concerns about attacks on minority communities, Dr. Khan rejected the characterization of Bangladeshis as religious extremists.
While Muslims form the majority, he described society as traditionally inclusive toward Hindus, Christians, Buddhists, and others.
He argued that religion is sometimes manipulated for political gain, but insisted that voters have repeatedly rejected extremist politics.
Bangladesh’s birth from the 1971 liberation struggle, he said, was rooted in a democratic quest for dignity and representation.
On minority representation in Parliament — currently limited to three MPs from minority communities — Dr. Khan noted that Bangladesh has reserved seats for women but not for religious groups.
He emphasized a civic identity over religious labels, suggesting poverty, rather than religion, should define vulnerability.
Constitutional Reform and Preventing Dictatorship
A recent referendum approved constitutional amendments aimed at preventing the return of authoritarian rule. Dr. Khan confirmed that the BNP supports the referendum and intends to implement reforms in phases.
“The objective is clear — never again should dictatorship take root in Bangladesh,” he stated.
Who Is Tarique Rahman?
Tarique Rahman, who spent 18 years in London before returning to lead the country, is described by Dr. Khan as open-minded, receptive, and youthful in spirit.
“He listens more than he speaks,” Khan said. “He welcomes new ideas.”
He recalled an incident during a rally when Rahman invited someone from the crowd onto the stage for an open conversation — a gesture that, according to Khan, reflects his unconventional and participatory leadership style.
What People Expect
Dr. Khan framed governance as a responsibility toward the economically vulnerable.
“Governments exist for the poor,” he said. “The wealthy can manage on their own. Citizens want functioning healthcare and quality education.”
Navigating Global Power Shifts
With global politics evolving — especially after shifts in US leadership — Bangladesh must carefully balance relations with the United States, China, Europe, Pakistan, and India.
Dr. Khan cautioned against trade being weaponized by powerful nations.
“When trade becomes a tool to pressure smaller economies, it creates instability,” he warned, adding that global cooperation should prioritize collective well-being rather than narrow national advantage.
Reviving SAARC
On regional cooperation, Dr. Khan expressed support for revitalizingthe South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC), which has remained largely inactive in recent years.
He argued that stronger South Asian unity would enhance the region’s global influence and help address shared challenges.
“If regional platforms had worked effectively, many tensions might have been avoided,” he said.
As Bangladesh embarks on a new political chapter under the BNP and Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, the road ahead is complex — rebuilding trust at home, recalibrating foreign policy, and strengthening democratic foundations.
Whether the government can translate ambition into stability will shape not only Bangladesh’s future but also the balance of power in South Asia.
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