The First 100 Days of Tarique Rahman: Reinvention or Redemption?

The usual way to measure a government’s performance in its first 100 days of office combines statistical data and political headlines. However, in Bangladesh, politics is more complex than simple politics. 

There is room for personality, symbolism, memories and trust. Moreover, one thing is clear—over the past 100 days, Tarique Rahman has demonstrated his personal growth more than any other achievement of his government.

For about 20 years, Tarique Rahman has been perceived as a highly controversial figure in Bangladeshi politics.

On the one hand, supporters considered him to be the politician who managed to survive in exile and under the persecution of authorities, having experienced all the negative consequences of the crisis in democracy.

Critics were still concerned about the controversies related to the activities of Tarique Rahman at the beginning of the previous decade.

Exile for such a long period of time created doubts concerning his ability to adapt to reality after years of loneliness in London. Many people doubted whether this politician would demonstrate political maturity, given that he had spent so many years in London.

What is interesting, however, is that during these first 100 days, Tarique Rahman has shown his growth as a politician in several aspects.

First, it is clear that the prime minister’s public speeches are becoming increasingly moderate. Unlike before, he refrains from using aggressive language, preferring a diplomatic approach to addressing the government’s problems.

There is no reason to say that Bangladesh has finally reached a high degree of political harmony. However, it should be emphasised that the first 100 days of Tarique Rahman’s rule did not witness such high levels of confrontation as many critics feared. The government’s policy shows that it has realistically assessed the country’s situation.

Moreover, Tarique Rahman’s speeches are marked by his desire to emphasise that the members of the opposition should enjoy equal rights with those people supporting the government.

Another noticeable change is evident in the prime minister’s personality. Now he no longer behaves like a confrontational opposition politician. Observers note that Tarique Rahman has changed not only in his public language but also in his personal gestures, which now indicate his readiness to listen to and understand his opponents.

Bangladesh is the country where politicians are usually known for their loudness. However, Tarique appears to choose the opposite approach.

This fact should not be underestimated. The country has been facing bitter political rivalry for several years. People expect more than the alleviation of the country’s economic situation. Therefore, the politician who chooses humility over arrogance demonstrates a willingness to create a different political environment. Tarique Rahman deserves to be complimented for his ability to avoid the temptations of victory in politics.

There is no reason to say that Bangladesh has finally reached a high degree of political harmony. However, it should be emphasised that the first 100 days of Tarique Rahman’s rule did not witness such high levels of confrontation as many critics feared. The government’s policy shows that it has realistically assessed the country’s situation.

Thus, the emphasis has been put on the problems of inflation, energy provision, employment and law and order. The launch of the Family Card and Farmer Card programmes indicates the government’s intention to assist low-income households.

The administration of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman appears to realise the importance of its actions. It should be acknowledged that Bangladesh faces economic pressures that cannot be overcome solely through political games.

Youth unemployment, financial instability and the need to revive banks demand urgent action. That is why the Cabinet of Ministers’ decision-making has been expedited.

Politically, the prime minister attempts to position himself as a pragmatic leader. The signal regarding the need to stabilise relations with India has been given, but this does not mean that Bangladesh’s policy will be directed solely in this direction. It is crucial that Bangladesh has a chance to maintain balance, conduct economic diplomacy and ensure international stability.

Nevertheless, there is much risk in this situation.

Perhaps the main threat to the government and its prime minister will not come from the opposition’s activities but from the country’s political culture.

All ruling political parties in Bangladesh face the threat of becoming captive to their own patronage, overconfident party activists and the idea that political victory grants them full control over the institutions of power. In the case of BNP, the honeymoon period with society can be very short-lived.

It should be admitted that Tarique Rahman faces very emotional expectations from Bangladeshi citizens. First, returning to the country after 17 years has strengthened the image of a resurrected politician. His inclusion in TIME magazine’s list of the world’s influential people adds to his reputation as well.

However, it is vital to admit that symbols can play an important role only to some extent. To achieve a real renaissance, Tarique Rahman needs to ensure he can implement his political ideas.

The main question in this case is whether this government will be able to support democratic institutions rather than weaken them. It should be admitted that the answer to this question will determine the duration of the existing optimism among the country’s citizens.

At the same time, all critics agree that Tarique Rahman has succeeded in his mission to establish political stability and foster a better atmosphere in Bangladeshi society. He appears to demonstrate greater political wisdom and personal composure.

This fact can be explained by his ability to see the difference between Bangladesh as it is now and as it was 15 years ago. It turns out that Bangladeshi society no longer wishes to see any endless confrontation. It demands efficiency, decent politics and strong institutions.

Perhaps Tarique Rahman will be able to give them what they want.

Zillur Rahman is a political analyst and president at the Centre for Governance Studies (CGS). He hosts ‘Tritiyo Matra’ on Channel i. His X handle is @zillur.