The article explores the potential risks of Bangladesh transforming into a popular autocracy. It critiques the ongoing constitutional reform efforts, suggesting they may not adequately empower citizens or prevent a demagogue from arising. The piece argues that without significant reforms fostering genuine citizen engagement, Bangladesh could face political challenges similar to those threatening liberal democracies worldwide.
The constitutional reform efforts in Bangladesh, targeting the limitations of liberal democracy, may mitigate issues posed by a widely criticized autocrat like Sheikh Hasina. However, they may fall short in preventing the emergence of a demagogue who garners popular support. Ali Riaz, head of the Constitution Reform Commission, indicated that the committee analyzed 121 national constitutions to propose changes aimed at democratizing the Bangladesh constitution, yet their recommendations reflect a current reliance on representative democracy instead of exploring participatory models associated with Athenian democracy.
Many liberal democracies are grappling with crises, raising questions about the sufficiency of existing systems to prevent authoritarianism. Landmarks such as the American model of representative democracy have faltered under pressure, ultimately failing to avert threats posed by individuals like Donald Trump. This suggests that liberal democracy may be reaching its limits, despite previously being hailed as an ideal political system.
The historical context of the U.S. Constitution illustrates an ideological shift where democracy came to serve the interests of the wealthy rather than ensuring broader citizen participation. The resulting centralization of state power has continuously complicated the possibility of participatory governance. Consequently, the democratic process has become entangled with economic forces, allowing for the political marginalization of those lacking material wealth.
The relationship between economic exploitation and political power has further diminished the prospects for genuine democratic engagement. Ordinary citizens now find themselves primarily fighting for recognition based on identity rather than substantive economic change. Increased political tension, coupled with the rise of demagoguery, signals potentially dire consequences for the future when those in power shift public grievances from class issues to scapegoating marginalized communities.
Given similar economic and environmental challenges, Bangladesh must heed the lessons drawn from liberal democracies and their vulnerabilities. The current recommendations from the CRC fail to deeply consider the potential for a popular autocrat who could emerge in light of political disillusionment. The limited representation proposed by the CRC, such as five seats for non-affiliated citizens in the legislative upper house, does not adequately empower ordinary citizens within a predominantly party-affiliated structure.
It is possible for Bangladesh to develop a more effective legislative model through reforms inspired by Athenian democracy. For instance, a bicameral system where citizen representatives are selected by lot could ensure direct accountability and oversight, fundamentally altering the power dynamics within government and fostering broader citizen engagement.
Though some may dismiss these proposals as overly utopian, the prospect of an emerging populist movement should not be underestimated. While immediate threats may seem remote, the potential for a popular demagogue becomes plausible if citizens feel increasingly neglected by their elected representatives. The rise of influential social media figures in Bangladesh exemplifies this shift as they engage the populace more dynamically than traditional political organs.
Potential future autocrats in Bangladesh could leverage popular support while undermining collective opposition through divisive tactics and scare campaigns against minorities. As history shows, constitutional safeguards may prove ineffective if popular will is invoked to consolidate power. The proposed constitutional reforms, aimed at enhancing political competition, miss the critical factor of empowering citizens through mechanisms of oversight that defend democracy against potential authoritarianism.
In conclusion, Bangladesh faces significant risks of devolving into a popular autocracy, driven by economic and environmental pressures akin to those seen in other liberal democracies. The Constitution Reform Commission’s recommendations, while thoughtful, may be insufficient without fostering genuine citizen engagement and oversight. Embracing alternative democratic models could empower ordinary Bangladeshis to play a more active role in safeguarding democracy against impending autocratic threats. Without these reforms, the nation risks succumbing to another form of authoritarian rule.
Original Source: netra.news
