Dhaka, November 12, 2024 — Bangladesh’s interim government, led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, is facing increasing challenges as large-scale protests from various social sectors, particularly among rural electrification workers and garment employees, gain momentum. This backlash comes amid concerns within the government over the potential resurgence of influence from the recently ousted Awami League (AL), headed by former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.
After coming into power through a historic mass uprising that ended Hasina’s 15-year rule, the interim administration has made promises of sweeping reforms to address systemic injustices and economic inequalities. However, the recent handling of protests is putting the Yunus administration under scrutiny.
PBS Workers’ Protests Intensify
Since January, employees from Palli Bidyut Samity (PBS), which provides essential rural electrification services, have voiced concerns about exploitative practices under the Bangladesh Rural Electrification Board (REB). Workers claim REB’s dual management system places unnecessary financial strain on PBS organizations. Among grievances are allegations that REB imposes excessive interest charges on PBS funds, resulting in resource constraints for underfunded rural electric providers and leaving many PBS workers without necessary resources and support.
Despite workers’ months-long demands, the interim government, citing security concerns, has taken a hard stance. Just last month, 20 PBS workers were dismissed, leading to widespread power outages across the country as protests intensified. This move, however, has led to even stronger public backlash, with protests continuing to grow. On October 17, eight PBS employees were arrested under sedition charges, exacerbating an already volatile situation.
Garment Workers Rally for Improved Conditions
garment industry, one of Bangladesh’s largest economic sectors, has also been in turmoil. Factory employees, many of whom were active in protests that led to Hasina’s downfall, have resumed demonstrations to press for fair wages, safer working conditions, and enforcement of a previously signed 18-point agreement addressing these demands. Interim government and factory owners initially agreed to meet demands by October 10; however, delays in fulfilling the agreement have pushed workers back onto the streets.
On October 23, law enforcement opened fire on garment workers protesting non-payment of wages at Generation Next Fashions Ltd, a company reportedly connected to influential AL figures. Tragically, 25-year-old Champa Khatun lost her life, sparking widespread outrage over the government’s aggressive response to worker-led demonstrations.
Government Strategy Under Fire
interim government’s response to both PBS and garment worker protests has drawn criticism from observers who argue that the administration’s approach mirrors that of the previous AL regime. “People supported this government hoping for transparency and justice, not to see old patterns repeated,” said political analyst Shafiq Rahman. “These movements are rooted in longstanding issues, not conspiracies.”
Yunus administration, however, maintains that some of the protests may be manipulated by those loyal to the ousted AL regime, hoping to destabilize the country. Officials have expressed fears that sympathizers of previous government might be infiltrating se worker movements to create unrest and undermine reform efforts.
Need for Constructive Dialogue
Analysts argue that unless the interim government adopts a more open dialogue-based approach, it risks alienating critical segments of society and tarnishing its reform agenda. Many believe that focusing on the implementation of promised reforms and engaging directly with worker representatives could ease tensions and foster a more cooperative environment.
Stakes remain high. Bangladesh’s fragile stability could be tested if the interim government fails to address the demands of its citizens, who are calling for long-term solutions to systemic inequities. The coming months may determine whether the current administration can successfully navigate the challenges or whether the growing tensions will lead to more unrest across the country.
