The summer of 1985 was a defining moment for Bangladesh, not just due to the catastrophic cyclone that claimed over 11,000 lives, but also because it marked the entry of Waker-uz-Zaman into the Bangladesh Army. Fast forward nearly four decades, and General Waker-uz-Zaman has emerged as one of the most pivotal figures in the country’s recent political landscape.
A Nation in Turmoil: On August 5, 2024, Bangladesh faced one of its most intense periods of political unrest. Student-led protests against government policies had escalated, leaving the nation on the brink of chaos. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, feeling the pressure from these movements and the military’s refusal to enforce a lockdown, resigned and self-exiled to India. The country woke to a power vacuum, with General Waker-uz-Zaman stepping into the limelight as the de facto leader.
The Rise of General Zaman: General Waker-uz-Zaman’s ascent in the military was shaped by both his personal capabilities and his familial ties. Born into a family with a rich military history, his father-in-law, General Muhammad Mustafizur Rahman, had previously held the same position of Chief of Army Staff. Zaman’s military career has been diverse, commanding units from infantry battalions to divisions, and serving in strategic roles like Chief of General Staff and Principal Staff Officer at the Armed Forces Division under Prime Minister Hasina. His educational background, holding a Master’s in Defence Studies from both National University of Bangladesh and King’s College, London, further polished his strategic insight.
Interim Governance: In the wake of Hasina’s departure, General Zaman acted swiftly. He convened a meeting with leaders from all major political parties, civil society, and even those who had been at odds with the previous administration. His strategy was clear: to form an interim government that could restore order and trust. This led to the appointment of Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus as the head of the interim government. Yunus, with his global reputation and local respect, was sworn in on August 8, 2024, promising a transition towards democracy.
Navigating Challenges: The path forward was fraught with challenges. General Zaman had to manage the expectations of a populace weary of military involvement in politics, address international concerns about democracy in Bangladesh, and handle internal military reform. His approach included:
Military Restraint: Ensuring the army did not repeat the violent enforcement seen during the protests, instead focusing on law and order with a softer touch.
Political Dialogue: Pushing for inclusive talks among political factions to mend rifts and plan for future elections.
Reform: Initiating reforms within the military to address past abuses and redefine its role in civilian governance.
The Debate on the Military’s Role: Waker-uz-Zaman’s leadership style has sparked debate. Critics argue that his familial ties to the Hasina government suggest a conflict of interest, questioning the neutrality of his actions. Supporters, however, point to his decisive action during the crisis as evidence of his commitment to the nation’s stability over personal or familial interests.
Looking Ahead: The interim government under General Zaman’s oversight has promised elections within 18 months. His strategic goal is not just to stabilize the country but to lay the groundwork for a constitutional overhaul that could better delineate the military’s role in politics. This might include strengthening civilian oversight of the military, an area where Bangladesh has historically struggled.
Conclusion: General Waker-uz-Zaman’s role in Bangladesh’s current political scenario is undeniably complex. As the “General behind the throne,” he must balance the military’s might with the democratic aspirations of the nation. His decisions over the next months will set the tone for whether Bangladesh can transition smoothly back to civilian rule or if it will witness further military involvement in its governance. His leadership will be scrutinized both domestically and internationally, as Bangladesh seeks to redefine its political identity amidst global eyes watching closely. Source: The Hindu