The Rise and Fall of Sheikh Hasina: A Political Journey
Sheikh Hasina, the five-time prime minister of Bangladesh, led the center-left Awami League to power in 1996 and ruled for a total of 20 years. Despite being hailed for her progressive policies and democratic values, her tenure was marred by accusations of authoritarianism and repression. The violent crackdown on student protests in August 2024 marked the end of her government, as she fled to India amidst widespread celebrations in the streets.
Hasina, the daughter of the founding father of Bangladesh, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, faced personal tragedy when her family was assassinated in 1975. Despite living in exile and facing political challenges, she returned to Bangladesh to fight against autocracy and eventually became the symbol of hope for democracy in the country.
While her achievements in economic development and poverty reduction were commendable, her legacy was overshadowed by allegations of human rights abuses and suppression of dissent. The downfall of Hasina’s regime in 2024 highlights the complex legacy of a leader who started as a beacon of democracy but ended amidst criticism and controversy.
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