Sheikh Hasina Wazed

Country: Bangladesh

In 2024, Sheikh Hasina Wazed, an enduring force in Bangladeshi politics, secured her fourth consecutive term as the prime minister, raising questions about the state of democracy in the nation. Leading the Awami League, PM Hasina's political trajectory has been marked by resilience amid challenges. From her early days as a pro-democracy advocate to weathering accusations of election rigging, she has steered Bangladesh through periods of unrest.

While international acclaim surrounds her compassionate stance on the Rohingya refugee crisis, criticisms persist regarding the suppression of opposition voices. The recent elections, tainted by allegations of a significant crackdown on the opposition, intensify concerns about the erosion of political pluralism. As she stands on the precipice of another term, the shadow of an authoritarian regime looms large, prompting a critical examination of the evolving political landscape in Bangladesh and its implications for democratic governance.