Students who played a central role in the protests that led to the overthrow of Bangladesh’s former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina have announced the formation of a new political party. This move comes as part of the growing political turmoil in the country ahead of expected elections.
The new party, named Ganatantrik Chhatra Sangsad (Democratic Student Council), includes key members of the Students Against Discrimination (SAD) group, which spearheaded the uprising that ousted Hasina from power in August 2024. The formation of the party marks a new chapter in the intense political jostling that is set to dominate the months ahead of the national elections, which are anticipated in late 2025 or early 2026.
While the political landscape in Bangladesh has been fraught with division, the formation of the Ganatantrik Chhatra Sangsad has already led to internal tensions. Rival factions within the student movement have accused the new party of undermining the revolution, with some clashes between members occurring when the party's name was announced on Wednesday.
The new political entity has also attracted students who were once aligned with Hasina’s Awami League, including those from the party's youth wing. Despite this, the new leaders are keen to distance themselves from the legacy of violence associated with Hasina’s rule.
Zahid Ahsan, a prominent leader of the new party, explained that they had ensured that none of the students from the Awami League were involved in atrocities during the revolution. "We are committed to protecting student rights and want to uphold the spirit of the mass movement that called for an end to Hasina’s autocratic grip," Ahsan told AFP.
Hasina, now in self-imposed exile in India, is facing a series of charges, including accusations of crimes against humanity. The new party’s formation aims to continue the push for reform and establish a government that truly represents the people.
The political chaos is intensifying, as rival student factions, including some former SAD leaders, are expected to form another party. These developments come amid growing tensions, with more than 150 people injured in recent clashes between student groups.
As the country moves toward elections, which are likely to see the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), Hasina’s long-time opponent, taking a leading role, the situation remains volatile. Muhammad Yunus, the Nobel laureate heading the caretaker government, has confirmed that general elections will be held in late 2025 or early 2026.
Bangladesh’s political scene continues to be highly fractured, with significant divisions over how best to move forward following Hasina's ousting and the legacy of her rule. The formation of the Ganatantrik Chhatra Sangsad signals a new phase in the country’s tumultuous political journey.
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