Rokan's Journal

Bangladesh, a nation born from the ashes of oppression through the blood and dreams of millions, now finds itself at a critical crossroads—one fraught with political uncertainty, external manipulation, internal disunity, and a growing erosion of democratic norms. Once hailed as a rising star among developing nations, the country today stands precariously on the edge of systemic instability, where national interest has taken a backseat to factional power struggles and foreign influence.

At the heart of the crisis lies a sobering truth: Bangladesh’s political landscape is no longer solely determined by its own people. Rather, it is increasingly shaped by the designs of foreign actors who manipulate, finance, and dictate key decisions through a complex web of soft diplomacy, strategic coercion, and economic influence.

How Did We Get Here?

Politicization of State Institutions: From Public Service to Political Subservience

Over the past two decades, Bangladesh has witnessed a steady decline in the neutrality and professionalism of state institutions that were originally designed to serve the constitution, protect citizen rights, and ensure the rule of law. What was once envisioned as a structure of checks and balances has now been compromised by blatant partisan alignment and politicization.

The judiciary, ideally the last resort for justice, has increasingly come under political influence, with judicial appointments, verdicts, and legal proceedings often reflecting the preferences of the ruling elite.

The civil service, which should be a non-partisan administrative machinery, now operates under an unofficial but powerful system of party loyalty and political patronage. Recruitment and promotions are frequently influenced by allegiance rather than merit.

Law enforcement agencies, including the police and intelligence services, have been routinely used to suppress opposition, harass dissenters, and protect political interests rather than ensuring impartial public safety. Forced disappearances, extrajudicial killings, and fabricated cases have become part of a larger culture of impunity.

Even the armed forces, which have historically played a pivotal role in national integrity and disaster response, have been increasingly drawn into non-military spheres under direct or indirect political manipulation—blurring the line between state security and political loyalty.

This erosion of institutional neutrality has not only damaged governance but also deeply undermined citizen trust, fostering a sense of alienation, fear, and disenchantment across society. The result is a hollowed-out state architecture that lacks resilience, legitimacy, and public

 Erosion of Democratic Practices: Elections without Choice, Parliament without Opposition

Bangladesh’s democratic process has experienced a profound decline. Elections, once the cornerstone of democratic legitimacy and peaceful political transition, have become symbolic exercises, often lacking credibility, competitiveness, and inclusiveness.

Electoral fraud, voter suppression, forced candidacy withdrawals, and blatant abuse of state resources have turned elections into heavily stage-managed affairs. Public institutions like the Election Commission have often been accused of partisanship or inaction in the face of irregularities.

Opposition parties are not merely excluded from power but are often actively persecuted. Leaders are jailed under dubious charges, activists are harassed or disappeared, and political organizing is subjected to intense surveillance and obstruction.

Dissent and freedom of expression have been curtailed through draconian laws such as the Digital Security Act, turning journalists, writers, and critics into targets. Media outlets face pressure, shutdowns, or co-optation, while social media surveillance has created a chilling effect on public discourse.

As a result, parliament functions more like a rubber-stamp body, devoid of real debate, opposition, or accountability. The absence of political pluralism has created a vacuum where fear replaces dialogue, and stagnation replaces reform. This not only breeds resentment among citizens but also provides fertile ground for extremism and disillusionment.

 Dependence on Foreign Patronage: From Sovereignty to Strategic Subjugation

In recent years, both the ruling regime and segments of the opposition have turned increasingly to foreign powers for political leverage and survival. This shift marks a dangerous erosion of Bangladesh’s strategic autonomy and national dignity.

The government, in pursuit of international legitimacy and geopolitical backing, has allowed foreign allies—particularly regional superpowers—to influence internal policy decisions, economic projects, and even security alignments. Deals are signed with little public scrutiny, often with strings attached that compromise national interest.

The opposition, in turn, has resorted to seeking support from external actors for pressure campaigns, asylum, or moral legitimacy—further internationalizing what should be domestic political discourse.

International organizations and diplomatic missions now play outsized roles in election monitoring, human rights advocacy, and civil society funding—often being manipulated to serve one faction or the other.

This dynamic has effectively outsourced national sovereignty, turning Bangladesh into a geopolitical pawn in the wider contest of regional power politics. The country risks becoming a satellite in a new Cold War-style rivalry between major global players, thereby losing control over its own political narrative.

Moreover, this dependence creates policy paralysis, where leaders hesitate to make bold national decisions without foreign endorsement. It discourages self-reliance, fuels internal divisions, and weakens the legitimacy of political actors who are perceived as proxies rather than representatives of the people.

Rise of Fifth Columnists and Foreign Agents

Embedded within various institutions and the media, fifth columnists—those who covertly serve the interests of foreign powers—have grown stronger. Through economic penetration, cultural manipulation, and intelligence networks, they influence policy decisions that often work against national interest. These elements stoke division, spread misinformation, and weaken the unity of the people.

Social Fragmentation and Economic Disparity

While economic indicators may reflect growth, inequality remains high. Urban-rural divides, youth unemployment, and frustration among the educated population are fueling disillusionment. The absence of inclusive development, coupled with rampant corruption and crony capitalism, has made the society deeply fractured and vulnerable to manipulation.

How Do We Overcome the Crisis?

Reclaim National Sovereignty as the Core Agenda

No foreign power—no matter how “friendly”—can dictate what is best for Bangladesh. The first step must be to reject all forms of political and economic subservience. National interest must come before party interest. This requires political will and a clear strategic doctrine of self-reliance, regional balance, and non-alignment.

Establish a Broad-Based National Dialogue

The current situation cannot be solved by one party or one side. All political parties, civil society, business leaders, and professional groups must come together in a national dialogue—not to divide power, but to build consensus on key national priorities: electoral reforms, judiciary independence, anti-corruption mechanisms, and a roadmap for democratic restoration.

Depoliticize Institutions and Ensure Accountability

Reforms must aim to make the Election Commission, Anti-Corruption Commission, police, and judiciary independent and accountable. Merit-based recruitment, transparency, and digital oversight are key tools to restore credibility and functionality to these institutions.

Strengthen National Media and Civil Society

A vibrant civil society and independent press are crucial watchdogs of democracy. Media must be free from political and foreign influence, with legal protections to ensure freedom of expression. Fact-based journalism and national narratives must replace propaganda and divisive rhetoric.

Foster a Culture of Patriotism and Unity

The education system, cultural institutions, and public discourse must be reoriented to instill values of national pride, tolerance, and civic responsibility. Bangladeshis must rise above party, religion, and class to place the country first. Our youth must be empowered to dream, participate, and lead a sovereign, ethical future.

Purge Fifth Column Elements

There must be a concerted effort to identify and isolate foreign-funded proxies, agents, and ideologues who operate within politics, media, academia, and NGOs. A robust national security policy and legislative framework must address this silent threat without curbing genuine dissent.

Conclusion: The Path Forward

Bangladesh today does not lack potential—it lacks unity and sovereign purpose. In a time when global powers are increasingly using smaller nations for strategic gain, we must not allow our homeland to become another example of proxy politics. Our strength lies in our people—in their resilience, in their sacrifices, in their undying love for this soil.

It is time to rise, not in anger, but in wisdom. Time to speak truth, not for revenge, but for justice. Time to unite, not for power, but for the future of our children.

Let us save Bangladesh from becoming a battlefield of others’ wars. Let us rebuild her as a nation guided by her own vision, voice, and values.

Because this country is ours—and we must put her first. Always.