The Curtains Change, The Play Remains
What's actually happening: FIRST INSTANCE: The 'return to democracy' narrative gained significant traction following the overthrow of military rule in 1990, when General Hussain Muhammad Ershad resigned amidst mass protests. This was widely hailed by international observers as a triumph of democratic forces, leading to elections that brought the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) to power under
Khaleda Zia in 1991. The period immediately preceding this was characterized by international pressure for 'free and fair' elections after years of authoritarian governance (USAID, 1990). REPETITIONS: The same rhetoric reappeared with ferocity in 1996, when widespread protests and a non-cooperation movement forced Khaleda Zia's government to resign, paving the way for the Awami League (AL) under
Sheikh Hasina to take power. Media coverage again emphasized a 'restoration of democracy' and the end of 'political deadlock' (The Guardian, 1996). Again, in 2007-2008, following two years of caretaker government, elections were held, and the Awami League returned under Hasina. The international community, including the EU and UN, deployed election observers, again characterizing the elections as
crucial for 'democratic stability' after 'political turmoil' (European Union Election Observation Mission, 2008). OUTCOMES: Each of these 'returns to democracy' was quickly followed by accusations of corruption, human rights abuses, and increasing authoritarianism from the opposing political faction. The 1991 transition saw continued political polarization. The 1996 transition led to the