Historical Encyclopedia
The governmental system of Bangladesh has undergone significant evolution since the country's founding in 1971, when it gained independence after a brutal war of liberation. In its formative process, Bangladesh faced numerous internal and external challenges, including political instability, economic hardships, and social changes. The evolution of the country's governmental system has gone through several phases, including the establishment of a republic, reforms, democratization, and the development of institutions necessary for the stabilization of the country.
Before gaining independence, Bangladesh was part of British India, which was divided into two independent countries—India and Pakistan—in 1947. As a result of the partition, the eastern part of Pakistan, including the territory of modern Bangladesh, became East Pakistan. This period was characterized by the rule of the military and political elite from West Pakistan, leading to political and social tensions. East Pakistan was dissatisfied with its political and economic marginalization, which played a significant role in the emergence of movements for autonomy and independence.
The governmental system in East Pakistan was subjected to political control by the central authorities in Islamabad, creating persistent internal conflicts. In the 1950s, a wave of protests began, based on cultural and linguistic differences, as Bengali culture and language were predominant in East Pakistan, while Urdu and Arab culture dominated in West Pakistan.
After the bloody War of Independence in 1971, Bangladesh became an independent state. The first step in the evolution of the governmental system was the adoption of the 1972 Constitution, which established the country as a parliamentary republic. The Constitution provided for the separation of powers and the establishment of democratic principles of governance. In the initial years of independence, the country was largely focused on recovery from the devastation of war and the construction of national institutions.
Under the leadership of the first President of Bangladesh, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, a new political order was established, aimed at creating a just society based on the principles of democracy, social justice, and equality. However, the political situation in the country remained unstable due to governance issues, economic difficulties, and internal conflicts. In 1975, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman was assassinated during a military coup, leading to the establishment of a military dictatorship in the country.
After the assassination of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, Bangladesh entered a period of political instability and authoritarian rule. Initially, power shifted to a military government that ruled the country through coups and strict control measures. General Hussain Mohammad Ershad came to power in 1982, establishing a dictatorship. He led the country, claiming that the nation needed a strong hand to overcome the crisis and economic difficulties.
Ershad’s rule was marked by the centralization of power, harsh repression against the opposition, and some economic reforms. During this time, some stabilization was observed, but political freedom remained limited. In 1990, after mass protests and political pressure from the opposition, Ershad was forced to resign as president, and Bangladesh returned to democratic governance.
After the fall of Ershad's dictatorship in 1990, Bangladesh entered a new phase of political evolution. The country returned to a multiparty system, and the first multiparty elections were held in 1991. The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), led by Begum Khaleda Zia, won the elections, and she became the Prime Minister. This period was characterized by political rivalry between two major parties—the BNP and the Awami League, led by Sheikh Hasina, the daughter of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.
The reforms carried out during this period aimed at strengthening democratic institutions and developing economic infrastructure. However, political life remained tense due to frequent conflicts between parties and instability in governance. The confrontation between parties led to several political crises, as well as episodes of violence and unrest.
Since the early 2000s, Bangladesh began moving towards greater political and economic stabilization. In 2009, the Awami League won the elections, and Sheikh Hasina became the Prime Minister. Since then, the country has continued on the path of democracy and economic growth. At the same time, political competition persists, and economic issues such as poverty and social inequality remain relevant.
The modern governmental system of Bangladesh is a parliamentary republic with developed democratic institutions, although questions about political transparency, human rights, and the fight against corruption remain. Parties such as the Awami League and BNP continue to play a leading role in politics, while social and economic reforms aim at improving the lives of the population.
The evolution of the governmental system of Bangladesh has gone through several stages, from independence to the establishment of democratic institutions and political stability. Despite a complicated path, including military regimes and political crises, the country has managed to establish itself as a parliamentary republic with a multiparty system. Today, Bangladesh continues to evolve, facing new challenges and striving to ensure a higher quality of life for its citizens.