Is Bangladesh following Pakistan's path? The recent coup against Sheikh Hasina's government and the military's involvement suggest a conspiracy that was in the making for six months.
For half a year, a plot to overthrow Bangladesh’s Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has been brewing. The scheme involved top military officials and the Islamist group Jamaat-e-Islami, with continuous funding from foreign entities. These external forces used the military and Jamaat-e-Islami to manipulate students and incite a coup.
The planning for this coup started in January 2024. During this period, meetings were held between Jamaat-e-Islami and high-ranking military officers, meetings that Sheikh Hasina's intelligence team failed to detect. These foreign powers targeted Sheikh Hasina’s government using their agenda through the military and Jamaat-e-Islami. The student-led protests, originally believed to be about reservations, unknowingly became a part of this larger conspiracy, which culminated in the toppling of Sheikh Hasina’s government.
Terrorists Join the Movement
As the movement gained momentum, terrorist organizations gradually took control. They received continuous financial support from foreign countries. The military persuaded Sheikh Hasina not to use force, arguing that shooting their own people would result in significant casualties and potentially topple her government. Sheikh Hasina likely never imagined that the officers she trusted would betray her.
The Conspiracy Unfolds
Despite the government's attempt to cut off internet access following the "March to Dhaka" protest, around 500,000 people rallied for the coup. Many of them were armed, and the military did not intervene as they marched towards Sheikh Hasina’s residence, even allowing chaos inside her home. Videos circulating on social media clearly showed military personnel removing Sheikh Hasina's portrait from her home's wall, expressing their enthusiasm during the act.
A Military-Preferred Government
Bangladesh seems to be following Pakistan's trajectory, where the new government is expected to be chosen by the military. In the coming days, it will become clear who orchestrated the obstacles to Sheikh Hasina's governance. During her tenure, Bangladesh experienced timely GDP growth and various development projects. These foreign powers did not want Sheikh Hasina to continue as a popular leader, so they conspired with local elements to overthrow her government.
The situation in Bangladesh remains tense as the world watches how this political drama unfolds.