The political situation and stability of Bangladesh could traverse downwards after the arrest warrant issued against former prime minister and leader of the opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Khaleda Zia. The decision to arrest Hasina was taken by Prime Minister Shaikh Hasina who heads the Bangladesh Awami League. The future of Bangladesh has been fastened to the political rivalry and personal animosity between Hasina and Zia and these recent developments are a case in point. The power struggle could hobble the economy of Asia’s fifth most populous nation and worse still, force the opposition to get support from the various religious groups that are restless within the state.
Any action against Zia must illustrate due process of law and transparency. More importantly, the ruling party must show a more inclusive approach and prepare the groundwork for a peaceful and lasting political solution. Hasina and Zia have shared the prime minister’s post for over two decades and the time has come for them to test each other’s mettle by endeavouring to conduct peaceful general elections in the country.
