Sheikh Hasina (born 1947) is the current Prime Minister of Bangladesh, serving since 2009 and previously from 1996 to 2001. She is the daughter of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, Bangladesh’s founding father. Sheikh Hasina leads the Awami League, Bangladesh’s largest political party, and has been a key figure in shaping the country’s political landscape for decades. Under her leadership, Bangladesh has experienced significant economic growth and social development, though her tenure has also been marked by challenges such as political unrest and environmental issues. Sheikh Hasina is recognized for her role in promoting women’s empowerment and socioeconomic progress in Bangladesh.
Early Life and Education
Sheikh Hasina Wazed was born on September 28, 1947, in Tungipara, a small village in the Gopalganj District of what was then East Bengal in British India. Her birth into the family of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, who later became the founding father of Bangladesh, deeply influenced her upbringing. Her mother, Sheikh Fazilatunnesa Mujib, also played a pivotal role in shaping her early life and values.
Growing up in a politically charged environment, Hasina was exposed to the socio-political issues of her time from a very young age. Her father’s relentless struggle for the rights and autonomy of the Bengali people was a significant influence on her. Despite the political turmoil, her family ensured that she received a proper education. She attended a local primary school in Tungipara before moving to Dhaka for further studies.
In Dhaka, Hasina continued her education at the Azimpur Girls’ School, where she developed a keen interest in academics and extracurricular activities. She later attended the Intermediate Girls’ College, now known as Badrunnessa Government Girls’ College. Her academic journey culminated at the University of Dhaka, where she pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Bengali, graduating in 1973.
The educational institutions she attended in Dhaka were centers of intellectual and political activity, and her time there exposed her to diverse ideas and debates, further molding her political outlook. Her early involvement in student politics set the stage for her future political career. She actively participated in movements and protests during her university years, demonstrating her early commitment to social and political causes.
In 1968, Hasina married M. A. Wazed Miah, a nuclear scientist who was a prominent figure in Bangladesh’s scientific community. The marriage was not only a personal union but also a partnership that supported her through many political challenges. The couple had two children, Sajeeb Wazed Joy and Saima Wazed Putul. Sajeeb would later become a significant figure in Bangladesh’s technological and political landscape, while Saima gained recognition for her work in autism advocacy.
A turning point in Hasina’s life came on August 15, 1975, when her father, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, along with most of her family, was assassinated in a military coup. Hasina and her sister, Sheikh Rehana, were abroad in West Germany at the time and thus survived the massacre. This tragic event had a profound impact on Hasina, galvanizing her resolve to continue her father’s mission.
Following the assassination, Hasina spent six years in exile in India. This period was marked by grief and political activism. She maintained close contacts with Bangladeshi expatriates and political leaders, planning her return and future political strategies. Her exile years were also a time of reflection and strengthening her commitment to her father’s ideals and the cause of Bangladesh.
Hasina’s return to Bangladesh in 1981 was a significant moment in her political journey. Despite the personal and political challenges, she was determined to take up the mantle of leadership. Her early life and education, marked by personal tragedy and political activism, prepared her for the complex and often tumultuous path that lay ahead in her political career.
Entry into Politics
Sheikh Hasina’s formal entry into politics began in 1981 when she was elected President of the Awami League while still in exile. This election was a clear indication of the party’s trust in her leadership and their belief in her ability to continue her father’s legacy. Her return to Bangladesh on May 17, 1981, was a highly anticipated event, marking the beginning of a new chapter in her life and the history of Bangladesh.
The early years of her political career were fraught with challenges. The political landscape of Bangladesh in the 1980s was dominated by the military regime of General Hussain Muhammad Ershad. Hasina emerged as a vocal opponent of the regime, leading various movements for the restoration of democracy. Her leadership during this period was characterized by resilience and a steadfast commitment to democratic principles.
In the 1986 parliamentary elections, Sheikh Hasina contested from three constituencies and won all of them, solidifying her position as a key political figure. Despite allegations of electoral fraud and political violence, her victories demonstrated significant popular support. However, the political environment remained tense, with frequent confrontations between the government and opposition forces.
Hasina’s leadership was crucial during the anti-Ershad movement in the late 1980s. The movement gained momentum, leading to widespread protests and civil unrest. Her ability to mobilize public support and her strategic leadership were instrumental in the eventual resignation of General Ershad in December 1990. This victory was a significant milestone in Bangladesh’s political history and highlighted Hasina’s potential as a national leader.
Her early political career also involved numerous personal sacrifices. She faced arrests, harassment, and threats to her life. Despite these challenges, Hasina remained undeterred, focusing on her goal of establishing a democratic government. Her perseverance during these formative years laid a strong foundation for her future political successes.
During the early 1990s, Sheikh Hasina worked tirelessly to rebuild the Awami League and strengthen its organizational structure. She emphasized grassroots mobilization and inclusivity, ensuring that the party was well-prepared for future electoral battles. Her efforts paid off when the Awami League won a significant number of seats in the 1991 parliamentary elections, although they did not secure a majority.
The period between 1991 and 1996 was marked by intense political rivalry between the Awami League and the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), led by Khaleda Zia. Despite being in the opposition, Hasina continued to advocate for democratic reforms and transparency in governance. Her role as the leader of the opposition further cemented her reputation as a determined and capable politician.
In the run-up to the 1996 general elections, Sheikh Hasina led a vigorous campaign, focusing on issues such as corruption, economic development, and social justice. The Awami League’s victory in the 1996 elections marked a significant turning point in her political career, ushering in her first tenure as Prime Minister. This period was characterized by several landmark achievements and challenges that tested her leadership.
First Tenure as Prime Minister
Sheikh Hasina’s first tenure as Prime Minister began in June 1996, following the Awami League’s victory in the general elections. Her government was marked by several significant achievements, including the signing of the Ganges Water Sharing Treaty with India in December 1996. This treaty resolved a long-standing issue over water distribution from the Ganges River, benefiting millions of people in both countries.
During her first term, Hasina’s administration focused on economic development, poverty alleviation, and educational reforms. She implemented various social welfare programs aimed at improving the living standards of the poor and emphasized women’s empowerment and gender equality. One of her notable initiatives was the “Food for Education” program, which aimed to increase school enrollment and reduce child labor by providing free food to students.
Her government also worked on improving infrastructure, particularly in rural areas. Efforts were made to enhance the road network, electricity supply, and access to clean water. These initiatives were crucial in fostering economic growth and improving the quality of life for many Bangladeshis.
One of the major challenges of her first tenure was dealing with allegations of corruption and political violence. The opposition, led by the BNP, accused her government of authoritarian practices, leading to political instability and protests. Despite these challenges, Hasina’s government managed to implement significant policy changes and development projects.
A significant aspect of her first tenure was her commitment to justice and human rights. Her government took steps to address historical grievances, including the trials of war criminals from the 1971 Liberation War. These trials aimed to deliver justice to the victims of wartime atrocities and were a longstanding demand of many Bangladeshis.
Hasina’s foreign policy during her first term focused on strengthening relations with neighboring countries and enhancing Bangladesh’s role in international organizations. Her efforts to improve ties with India were particularly noteworthy, resulting in several bilateral agreements that benefited both nations.
Her term ended in 2001, with the Awami League losing the general elections to the BNP-led alliance. Despite the defeat, Hasina’s first tenure as Prime Minister was marked by notable achievements in economic development, social welfare, and justice. These accomplishments set the stage for her future political career and established her as a key figure in Bangladesh’s political landscape.
Struggles and Return to Power
After the 2001 election defeat, Sheikh Hasina faced numerous challenges, both politically and personally. The political environment in Bangladesh became increasingly volatile, with allegations of corruption and political violence dominating the landscape. The BNP-led government targeted Awami League leaders and supporters, leading to widespread repression.
In 2004, Hasina narrowly escaped an assassination attempt during a rally in Dhaka. A series of grenade attacks killed 24 people and injured hundreds, highlighting the dangerous nature of Bangladeshi politics. The attack only strengthened her resolve to fight for justice and democracy.
Political tensions continued to escalate, leading to the imposition of a military-backed caretaker government in January 2007. This government aimed to curb corruption and restore order, resulting in the arrest of numerous political leaders, including Sheikh Hasina. She was detained on corruption charges, which she denied, claiming they were politically motivated.
After nearly a year in detention, Hasina was released on bail in June 2008. The caretaker government prepared for new elections, and Hasina’s return to political prominence was marked by the Awami League’s decisive victory in the December 2008 general elections. Her party won a landslide majority, paving the way for her second tenure as Prime Minister.
Second Tenure as Prime Minister
Sheikh Hasina’s second tenure as Prime Minister began in January 2009 with a renewed focus on economic development, digitalization, and social reforms. The Digital Bangladesh initiative, launched in 2009, aimed to integrate technology and digital services into government operations and public services. This initiative significantly enhanced transparency, efficiency, and accessibility, promoting a culture of digital literacy and innovation throughout the country.
Her administration prioritized infrastructure development, addressing critical issues like power shortages and poor transportation networks. The government invested heavily in power generation and energy infrastructure, leading to significant improvements in electricity availability. This not only supported industrial growth but also improved the quality of life for millions of citizens.
The construction of the Padma Bridge, one of the most significant infrastructure projects in Bangladesh’s history, commenced during her second term. This bridge is expected to boost connectivity and economic activities in the southern regions of Bangladesh, facilitating trade and commerce. Other infrastructure projects, such as the Dhaka Metro Rail, were initiated to address urban congestion and improve public transportation.
Economic growth was a cornerstone of Hasina’s second tenure. Her administration focused on diversifying the economy, promoting industrialization, and enhancing agricultural productivity. Policies to boost agricultural output and ensure food security were implemented, leading to increased crop yields and reduced dependency on food imports. The government also worked on expanding the textile and garment industry, which is a significant contributor to Bangladesh’s economy.
Social welfare programs were a key aspect of Hasina’s governance. Initiatives like the “One House, One Farm” project aimed at rural development and poverty alleviation by promoting small-scale farming and entrepreneurship. Her government also emphasized women’s empowerment, introducing policies to improve women’s access to education, healthcare, and employment opportunities. The introduction of interest-free loans for women entrepreneurs and the implementation of quotas for women in government jobs were notable measures.
Healthcare improvements were another focus area. Hasina’s administration expanded healthcare services, particularly in rural areas, and implemented programs to reduce maternal and child mortality rates. The establishment of community clinics across the country provided essential healthcare services to underserved populations, contributing to significant health improvements.
Education reforms under her leadership included the distribution of free textbooks to students, the introduction of stipends for female students, and the expansion of technical and vocational education. These measures aimed to increase literacy rates, reduce dropout rates, and prepare the youth for the job market.
A significant achievement of her second term was the trial and conviction of war criminals from the 1971 Liberation War. This move aimed to deliver justice and closure to the victims of wartime atrocities, fulfilling a longstanding demand of many Bangladeshis. The trials were conducted by the International Crimes Tribunal, and several prominent figures were convicted and sentenced, bringing a sense of justice and reconciliation to the nation.
Hasina’s foreign policy focused on strengthening regional cooperation and improving relations with neighboring countries. The resolution of the maritime boundary dispute with Myanmar in 2012 and the signing of the Land Boundary Agreement with India in 2015 were notable diplomatic successes. These agreements resolved longstanding issues and enhanced bilateral relations, contributing to regional stability and cooperation.
However, her second term was not without controversy. Allegations of human rights violations, suppression of political dissent, and limitations on press freedom drew criticism from domestic and international observers. The opposition accused her government of using law enforcement agencies to stifle political opponents and dissenting voices, leading to a polarized political environment.
Despite these challenges, Hasina’s second tenure saw significant economic growth, improved infrastructure, and notable social progress. Her leadership during this period laid the foundation for Bangladesh’s continued development and positioned the country as a rising economy in South Asia.
Continued Leadership and Recent Developments
Sheikh Hasina continued to lead the Awami League to subsequent electoral victories, securing her third consecutive term as Prime Minister in 2014 and her fourth term in 2018. Her leadership during these terms has been marked by continued economic growth, ambitious infrastructure projects, and a focus on social development.
Under her leadership, Bangladesh has made remarkable progress in various socio-economic indicators. Poverty reduction efforts have yielded significant results, with millions of people lifted out of poverty. Her government’s emphasis on women’s empowerment has led to increased female participation in the workforce and improved gender equality.
The Digital Bangladesh initiative continued to evolve, with the expansion of internet access and digital services across the country. This digital transformation has facilitated greater access to information, improved government services, and fostered innovation and entrepreneurship.
Infrastructure development remained a priority, with the completion of several mega projects. The Padma Bridge, which is expected to be completed soon, will significantly enhance connectivity and economic activities in the southern regions of Bangladesh. The Dhaka Metro Rail project, aimed at reducing traffic congestion in the capital, is another major infrastructure initiative.
Healthcare and education improvements have continued, with expanded services and increased access. The government’s focus on healthcare has led to improved health outcomes, while education reforms have contributed to higher literacy rates and better educational opportunities for all citizens.
In recent years, Sheikh Hasina’s leadership has been tested by the Rohingya refugee crisis. Since 2017, over a million Rohingya refugees have fled persecution in Myanmar and sought refuge in Bangladesh. Hasina’s government has received international praise for its humanitarian response, despite the immense strain on resources and infrastructure.
Despite her achievements, Hasina’s tenure has faced significant challenges, including allegations of electoral fraud, corruption, and human rights abuses. Critics have accused her government of using authoritarian tactics to suppress political opposition and dissent. The 2018 general elections were marred by allegations of vote-rigging and violence, leading to questions about the legitimacy of her government.
In 2022, the government sought fiscal assistance from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to address depleting foreign-exchange reserves, resulting in a support package aimed at preserving macroeconomic stability and fostering inclusive growth. This move was seen as a necessary step to maintain economic stability amid global economic uncertainties.
In July 2024, protests erupted over the controversial quota system in government jobs, leading to violent clashes and the death of over 200 people. The government’s response, including shutting down internet services and imposing curfews, drew widespread criticism. Amid escalating protests, Hasina announced her resignation on August 5, 2024, marking the end of her 15-year rule.
Legacy and Impact
Sheikh Hasina’s legacy is multifaceted, encompassing significant contributions to Bangladesh’s economic development, social progress, and international diplomacy. Her leadership has been characterized by a mix of assertiveness and pragmatism, enabling her to navigate the complex political landscape of Bangladesh.
Under her leadership, Bangladesh has achieved remarkable economic growth, improved infrastructure, and significant advancements in healthcare and education. Her commitment to women’s empowerment and social welfare has led to notable progress in gender equality and poverty reduction.
One of the hallmarks of Hasina’s tenure has been her focus on economic development. Through various initiatives and policies, her government managed to sustain an impressive GDP growth rate, transforming Bangladesh into one of the fastest-growing economies in the world. The diversification of the economy, particularly the strengthening of the textile and garment industry, played a crucial role in this economic boom. Additionally, the emphasis on digitalization through the Digital Bangladesh initiative modernized many sectors, contributing to improved efficiency and transparency.
In the realm of social development, Hasina’s government implemented numerous programs aimed at improving the quality of life for Bangladeshis. The expansion of healthcare services and education reforms significantly increased literacy rates and reduced infant and maternal mortality rates. Social safety nets, such as stipends for female students and interest-free loans for women entrepreneurs, empowered women and supported their active participation in the economy.
Internationally, Hasina’s diplomatic efforts have enhanced Bangladesh’s standing on the global stage. Her government’s handling of the Rohingya refugee crisis garnered international praise for its humanitarian approach, despite the significant challenges it posed. Hasina’s commitment to regional cooperation and her efforts to resolve disputes, such as the maritime boundary with Myanmar and the land boundary agreement with India, underscored her pragmatic approach to diplomacy.
Despite these achievements, Hasina’s tenure was not without controversy. Allegations of electoral fraud, human rights abuses, and suppression of political dissent marred her legacy. Critics argue that her government’s use of law enforcement agencies to stifle opposition and limit press freedom undermined democratic principles. The violent clashes during the 2024 protests over the controversial quota system in government jobs, and the government’s heavy-handed response, highlighted the ongoing challenges in balancing development with democratic governance.
In assessing Sheikh Hasina’s legacy, it is evident that her leadership has had a profound impact on Bangladesh. Her tenure brought about substantial economic and social progress, transforming the nation into a rising economic power in South Asia. However, the controversies and challenges associated with her governance underscore the complexities of leading a developing nation through periods of rapid transformation.
Hasina’s leadership style and policies will continue to be studied and debated, reflecting the intricacies and challenges of political leadership in a dynamic and evolving nation. Her resilience in the face of adversity and her commitment to her father’s vision for Bangladesh have left an indelible mark on the country’s history. As Bangladesh continues to develop, Sheikh Hasina’s contributions and the lessons from her tenure will remain influential in shaping the nation’s future trajectory.
