State processes, methods also turned Hasina into a ‘dictator’, says Badiul

He criticises the political sheltering behind many injustices in Bangladesh

The mechanisms and processes of the state system also contributed to transforming Sheikh Hasina into a “dictator”, Sushashoner Jonno Nagorik, or SHUJAN, Secretary Badiul Alam Majumdar has said.

Speaking at a human chain on Manik Mia Avenue in Dhaka on Saturday, he said: “This system must change to prevent future leaders from becoming oppressive figures like her.”

SHUJAN organised the event to demand the restoration of law and order and the establishment of a truly democratic state through reforms.

On the July uprising, Badiul said: “The movement sought to dismantle an authoritarian system that had turned the former prime minister into a despotic ruler.”

After the fall of the Awami League government on Aug 5, 2024, the interim administration formed 11 commissions to drive state reform initiatives.

Badiul was appointed head of the Electoral Reform Commission and has already submitted his recommendations to the chief advisor.

He said, "The committee's understanding is that to make elections free and fair, we must clean up the electoral field.”

"Those who have polluted the sacred electoral arena by winning through dishonest means in the past must be removed."

"In our country, many injustices occur based on collusion, often under political protection," he added.

“We must bring change to politics and political parties and eliminate the influence of money.”

Badiul highlighted the need to strengthen the Election Commission and ensure a neutral government to oversee the election.

“Without these measures, this system will only breed another authoritarian regime,” he concluded.