Bangladesh’s constitutional reforms reflect a struggle for modern democracy amid global authoritarian trends. The CRC’s reliance on liberal democratic models risks neglecting direct participation crucial for genuine governance. As potential autocrats rise, the need for empowerment and accountability in the Bangladeshi political sphere is critical to prevent further erosion of democracy.
The constitutional reforms in Bangladesh aim to modernize democracy, with challenges arising from the regional democratic crises. Ali Riaz led the Constitution Reform Commission (CRC), which examined 121 national constitutions but drew heavily from liberal democratic frameworks, potentially ignoring the need for direct democratic practices evident in earlier societies like Athens. This decision raises questions about the effectiveness of traditional liberal democracy amidst rising authoritarianism globally.
Liberal democracies face vulnerability, as demonstrated by the United States, where entrenched institutions could not prevent Donald Trump’s resurgence. The shift from direct participation to representative governance has limited democratic engagement and empowered economic elites, reflecting a rift where the essence of democracy is distorted.
Economic issues have caused political struggles to focus on identity rather than class, diverting blame for societal issues toward marginalized groups. Many view these demographics as scapegoats, facilitating the rise of demagogues who champion majoritarian sentiments while rallying support based on fear and division.
In Bangladesh, the CRC’s proposals for the legislature may fail to incorporate a genuinely participatory democratic model. The limited representation in the upper house, with five seats designated for citizen representatives, lacks true influence, placing ordinary citizens in a powerless position amid party politics.
While the CRC could have drawn from Athenian democracy, instead opting for an Anglo-American model has left room for possible authoritarianism. Transformative solutions call for revamping representation and increasing citizen engagement in governance, leaning heavily on democratic education and oversight.
The emergence of Bangladeshi demagogues exploiting social media demonstrates a growing threat to democracy. Influencers craft narratives that target opposition leaders, fostering division as they aim to bolster their own popularity. This shift indicates a potential future under a popular autocrat, who could undermine constitutional barriers using democratic channels.
A new generation of leaders must recognize the perils of authoritarianism disguised as popular governance. The political landscape could dramatically shift if attention goes unchecked, with history showing that the public often must mobilize against an autocrat when it’s too late. Therefore, Bangladesh needs to prioritize genuine democratic reforms that empower citizens and create accountability in governance.
Bangladesh is at a crossroads where constitutional reforms must account for populist threats to democracy. The CRC’s reliance on liberal frameworks may leave a gap that allows for the emergence of popular autocrats. True democratization requires embedding citizen oversight mechanisms and addressing class inequalities to safeguard against authoritarianism. Engagement and grassroots empowerment are essential to ensure the sustainability of democratic governance in the face of rising challenges.
Original Source: netra.news
