Sheikh Hasina Wajid is a prominent Bangladeshi politician who has served as the Prime Minister of Bangladesh for several terms. Her political career has been marked by both achievements and controversies. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of Sheikh Hasina Wajid’s life, political journey, and the events that led to her resignation in 2024. By visiting evis.vn, you can access in-depth information about Sheikh Hasina Wajid and other influential figures.
| Sheikh Hasina Wajid | |
|---|---|
| Born | September 28, 1947 |
| Political Party | Awami League |
| Terms as Prime Minister | 1996-2001, 2009-2024 |
| Resigned | August 2024 |
| Reason for Resignation | Student-led protests and nationwide unrest |
Early Life and Political Career
I’m thrilled to share with you the remarkable journey of Sheikh Hasina Wajid, a woman who has left an indelible mark on Bangladeshi politics. Born into a prominent political family on September 28, 1947, Hasina’s life has been intertwined with the history of her nation.
Family and Early Influences
Hasina’s father, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, was a charismatic leader who played a pivotal role in Bangladesh’s independence movement. Growing up in a politically charged environment, Hasina witnessed firsthand the struggles and sacrifices made by her father and his comrades.
| Name | Relation to Hasina | Role in Bangladesh’s History |
|---|---|---|
| Sheikh Mujibur Rahman | Father | First President of Bangladesh |
| Sheikh Rehana | Sister | Politician and Member of Parliament |
| Sheikh Kamal | Brother | Martyred during the Bangladesh Liberation War |
Education and Activism
Despite the political turmoil surrounding her, Hasina pursued her education with determination. She earned a bachelor’s degree in political science from the University of Dhaka and later studied at the Institute of Education and Research in Kolkata, India. During her student years, Hasina became actively involved in politics, joining the Awami League, the party founded by her father.
- Joined the Awami League in 1964.
- Participated in protests and rallies against the Pakistani government.
- Was arrested and imprisoned for her political activities.
Rise to Power
Leadership of the Awami League
Hasina’s political star began to rise in the 1980s, when she took over the leadership of the Awami League following the assassination of her father. Under her guidance, the party rebuilt its support base and emerged as the main opposition to the military regime that had seized power in Bangladesh.
Hasina’s leadership was characterized by her charisma, her commitment to democracy, and her ability to connect with the people. She tirelessly campaigned throughout the country, rallying support for her party’s agenda of social justice and economic development.
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 1981 | Elected President of the Awami League |
| 1986 | Led the Awami League to victory in parliamentary elections |
| 1991 | Became Prime Minister of Bangladesh for the first time |
First Term as Prime Minister
Hasina’s first term as Prime Minister was marked by a number of significant achievements. She introduced economic reforms that boosted the country’s economy and reduced poverty. She also implemented social programs that improved healthcare and education for the people of Bangladesh.
However, Hasina’s first term was also overshadowed by political turmoil and violence. The opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) accused her government of corruption and authoritarianism. In 1996, Hasina lost power after the BNP won the parliamentary elections.
- Introduced economic reforms that boosted the country’s economy.
- Implemented social programs that improved healthcare and education.
- Faced political turmoil and violence from the opposition.
Controversies and Downfall
Despite her successes, Hasina’s rule was not without controversy. Critics accused her government of corruption, authoritarianism, and human rights abuses. Hasina’s crackdown on dissent and her use of the security forces to quell protests drew international condemnation.
Erosion of Democratic Institutions
Over time, Hasina’s government gradually eroded democratic institutions in Bangladesh. The independence of the judiciary was compromised, and the media was increasingly controlled by the state. The opposition faced harassment and intimidation, and political opponents were often arrested on dubious charges.
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 2014 | Controversial elections marred by violence and allegations of fraud |
| 2018 | Crackdown on dissent and arrests of opposition leaders |
| 2021 | Passage of laws restricting freedom of expression |
Student Protests and Resignation
In 2023, a wave of student protests erupted across Bangladesh, triggered by the government’s decision to raise public transportation fares. The protests quickly escalated, with students demanding Hasina’s resignation and an end to corruption and authoritarianism.
- Student protests began in 2023 over increased transportation fares.
- The protests grew into a nationwide movement, demanding Hasina’s resignation.
- Hasina resigned in August 2024 after weeks of unrest and violence.
Legacy and Impact
Domestic Achievements
Despite the controversies surrounding her rule, Hasina Wajid’s legacy is marked by significant domestic achievements. Under her leadership, Bangladesh experienced economic growth, poverty reduction, and improvements in healthcare and education. She also played a key role in promoting women’s rights and gender equality.
| Indicator | 1996 | 2024 |
|---|---|---|
| GDP per capita (USD) | 350 | 2,200 |
| Poverty rate (%) | 50 | 20 |
| Literacy rate (%) | 55 | 75 |
International Stature
Hasina Wajid also played a prominent role on the international stage. She served as the President of the United Nations General Assembly from 2018 to 2019, and she has been a vocal advocate for climate action and sustainable development.
- “Climate change is the defining challenge of our time, and Bangladesh is on the front lines,” Hasina said in a speech at the UN Climate Summit in 2019.
- “We need to work together to reduce emissions and build resilience to the impacts of climate change.”
Mixed Legacy
Hasina Wajid’s legacy is a complex one. She is both admired for her achievements and criticized for her authoritarian tendencies. Her downfall in 2024 was a testament to the growing dissatisfaction with her rule. However, her contributions to Bangladesh’s development and her role on the international stage cannot be denied.
Final Thought
Sheikh Hasina Wajid’s political career has been a rollercoaster ride of achievements and controversies. Her legacy as Bangladesh’s Prime Minister remains complex and contested. While she brought stability and economic growth to the country, her authoritarian tendencies and suppression of dissent ultimately led to her downfall. Sheikh Hasina Wajid’s story serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked power and the importance of upholding democratic values.
