One year has passed since the mass protests that led to the ouster of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, yet political divisions in Bangladesh remain deeply entrenched. Despite initial optimism that the student-led demonstrations would catalyze significant reforms, the country continues to grapple with unresolved tensions. DW conducted interviews with citizens, activists, and government officials in Dhaka to assess the ongoing situation.
While some progress has been noted in areas such as labor rights and media freedoms, many citizens remain dissatisfied with the pace of change. Activists in Dhaka report that the ruling party, now led by a new figure, has not fully implemented the demands of the protesters, including greater transparency and accountability. Meanwhile, the opposition parties continue to struggle with internal divisions, limiting their ability to present a united front against the ruling establishment.
Residents in Dhaka express a mix of hope and frustration, with some believing that the protests have laid the groundwork for future reforms, while others argue that the political landscape has not changed meaningfully. The situation remains fluid, with ongoing discussions about potential elections and the role of civil society in shaping Bangladesh’s democratic future.