In a democratic society, political parties should avoid the politics of revenge and instead strive to outperform one another through service, integrity, and effective governance. At its core, politics exists to serve the people, protect their rights, and create a path toward shared progress. When it becomes driven by retaliation and hostility, it loses its moral foundation and begins to weaken the very institutions it is meant to protect.
In Bangladesh, political rivalry has too often descended into cycles of revenge. This has undermined democratic values and caused significant harm to citizens. Many people have paid a heavy price, including the loss of lives. Political leaders have been assassinated, forced out of power, or subjected to relentless pressure. Such a history highlights the urgent need to move beyond revenge driven politics in order to ensure stability and build a truly inclusive and people centered democracy.
Over the years, there has been a noticeable lack of consensus among political parties on major national interests. Transitions of power have rarely been smooth or widely accepted. With only a few exceptions, elections have often been questioned, which has weakened public confidence in democratic processes. As a result, political struggle has frequently taken precedence over public welfare, leaving ordinary citizens to bear the consequences. This environment has fostered mistrust, political disengagement, and the spread of corruption and abuse of power.
In Bangladesh, political rivalry has too often descended into cycles of revenge. This has undermined democratic values and caused significant harm to citizens
The consequences of revenge-based politics are far-reaching. It is often observed that such an approach ultimately backfires on those who prioritize retaliation over development. Valuable time and energy that should be invested in national progress are instead wasted on settling political scores. Ordinary citizens, who expect better governance, economic opportunities, and social justice, suffer the most. Daily life is disrupted, policies lack continuity, and long-term planning becomes difficult. Over time, this leads to frustration and disillusionment. Many citizens begin to feel that political change does not bring meaningful improvement. In some cases, individuals and communities suffer lasting damage, becoming silent victims of prolonged political conflict.
Another critical concern is the restriction or banning of political parties and opposition activities. Although such measures are sometimes justified in the name of stability, they often produce the opposite effect. Limiting opposition narrows civic space, which is essential for citizens to express opinions, organize, and participate in public life. A healthy democracy depends on open dialogue, tolerance of differing views, and active participation by all political actors. When these are restricted, democratic institutions weaken and accountability declines.
History also shows that suppressing opposition can lead to unintended consequences. Rather than eliminating dissent, it often intensifies it. When people are denied the opportunity to express their views, frustration builds and tensions rise. In many cases, suppressed groups reemerge stronger and more determined. This backlash demonstrates that repression does not resolve conflict; it deepens it.
For Bangladesh, the path forward is clear. Political parties must recognize that their primary responsibility is to the people. Instead of focusing on punishing opponents, they should aim to deliver better governance, strengthen institutions, and improve public services. Genuine political success comes from enhancing the lives of citizens, not from weakening rivals.
The future of democracy in Bangladesh depends on a fundamental shift in political mindset. Moving away from revenge driven politics toward a constructive and inclusive approach is not optional; it is essential. Political competition should result in better governance, not deeper division. Differences should be resolved through dialogue, not suppression. Power should be used to serve the people, not to settle political scores.
In conclusion, the politics of revenge cannot build a peaceful or prosperous nation. It harms political parties and damages the country as a whole by weakening institutions, eroding trust, and slowing development. Bangladesh has learned many lessons from its past. It now has an opportunity to move forward on a different path, one that values democracy, respects diverse opinions, and prioritizes the well-being of its people. By choosing performance over revenge and cooperation over conflict, Bangladesh can build a stronger, more stable, and more hopeful future.
The writer is a freelancer
