August 5 will go down in history in Bangladesh, akin to a second liberation day, marking the end of Sheikh Hasina’s 15-year authoritarian rule. It was a day when the people seized power, setting aside their differences and uniting in their quest for freedom and a brighter future. How the nation manages this transition will be pivotal in shaping its trajectory as a democracy and a burgeoning economic force in South Asia. The uprising in Bangladesh offers valuable lessons for struggling democracies worldwide.

One, the cost of abrupt, violent change is unaffordable for most nations. Scenes of joy sharply contrast with scenes of destruction and chaos. Victories can lead to looting and destruction. Angry mobs seek revenge and punish both the guilty and the innocent. The breakdown of law after a government’s collapse often harms peace and prosperity. The Bangladeshi people need to envision a future without seeking retribution and vengeance, following the brutality of the Hasina regime and the excitement of their triumph.

Revolutions and power vacuums are very unpredictable. They happen because of economic inequality, political repression, cultural tensions, and public discontent. These things build up over time to overthrow the established order. The specific triggers for a revolution are often impossible to predict, as they can be something as innocent as the public self-immolation of a street vendor or the killing of innocent students.

When a........

© The Friday Times