Friday | 10 January 2025 | Reg No- 06
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Friday | 10 January 2025 | Epaper
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Empowering youth: A call for authentic leadership in political arena

Published : Friday, 10 January, 2025 at 12:00 AM  Count : 166
Nazmul Karim
Patriotism and power-lust have long been conflicting forces shaping the actions of politicians in Bangladesh. A significant number of senior leaders, regardless of their affiliations with the Awami League, BNP, or Jamaat-e-Islami, seem to believe that appeasing India guarantees political survival. This belief, however, is far from patriotic. It is an overt display of power-driven politics. Maintaining relations with a neighboring country like India is vital, but such diplomacy must rest on mutual respect and equality, not submission. The youth of Bangladesh, a generation equipped with awareness and critical thinking, increasingly rejects this subservient approach. They view it as a betrayal of the nation's sovereignty.

The demographic reality of Bangladesh is powerful. Over 65 per cent of its population is under the age of 35. These young citizens are no longer passive observers of politics. They are informed and vocal, examining both historical and contemporary political maneuvers. This generation discerns the difference between diplomacy that benefits the nation and one that sacrifices national dignity for personal or party gains.

Leaders from the past like Maulana Bhashani, Sher-e-Bangla A.K. Fazlul Huq, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, and Ziaur Rahman understood the delicate balance needed in foreign relations. None of them compromised Bangladesh's integrity for favor with foreign powers. Their leadership inspired respect because they prioritized the nation's interests over their own. In contrast, the past administration under Sheikh Hasina has turned relations with India into a dependency-driven model, critics argue, primarily to maintain political power. This dependence not only risks the nation's sovereignty but also alienates the youth.

India's foreign policy, often criticized as hegemonic, faces backlash in other South Asian countries as well. Nepal's economic blockade by India in 2015 soured bilateral ties. Sri Lanka resists India's political influence amidst growing nationalist sentiment. The Maldives has seen a rise in the "India Out" campaign, reflecting public discontent. Bhutan, despite receiving significant Indian aid, faces domestic calls for an independent foreign policy. Bangladesh, however, is uniquely positioned to resist such dominance, given its economic resilience and strategic location. Yet, a segment of the political elite appears willing to compromise this strength for short-term gains.

The youth of Bangladesh represents a formidable force, filled with energy and idealism. History has repeatedly shown that nations with a motivated young population can withstand external pressures. For this to happen, however, senior politicians must acknowledge and respect this potential. They must inspire the youth by embodying integrity, patriotism, and courage.

The erosion of public trust in leadership stems from a focus on power over progress. Issues such as the trade imbalance with India, the unresolved Teesta water-sharing agreement, and border killings of Bangladeshi civilians by Indian forces exacerbate dissatisfaction. These concerns demand bold, principled leadership that can address them head-on.
Politicians must understand that today's youth demand accountability. They no longer revere power-hungry leaders. The young generation seeks leadership that upholds national interests and practices diplomacy with strength and fairness. For politicians clinging to outdated methods of appeasement, the future holds little promise.

Bangladesh stands at a crossroads. Its leaders must decide whether they will continue to prioritize personal ambitions or rise to meet the expectations of the nation. The path of integrity and patriotism is not only morally right but also essential for long-term national progress. The youth are ready to lead. They only need the opportunity to do so. Leaders who empower them and earn their trust will secure a lasting legacy. Those who fail to adapt will be left behind, discarded by history.

The writer is managing director and chief executive officer of Bridge Chemie Limited


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