Dr. Nayan Bangalee :
While people can endure poverty, they cannot accept torture or injustice. Every society has its own norms and strives for development within its community. However, significant problems plague society, and a primary factor is the lack of genuine leadership. In Bangladesh, political leadership is often viewed as the primary solution. Unfortunately, many leaders, such as Upazila Chairmen and Members of Parliament, are disconnected from the communities they serve. They reside mostly in the capital city, making only occasional visits to their constituents. Their selection often comes from party elites far removed from grassroots realities, leaving the local population without true representation.
Meanwhile, countless dedicated individuals live and work within these communities, committed to social progress. They engage in numerous initiatives but are overlooked for leadership roles, creating an alarming divide between those in power and those who actively contribute to society. This disconnect is the root cause of much of our political strife. It’s time for real change, where community leaders, who genuinely understand and care for their constituents, are given the opportunity to lead.
Empowering social leaders is crucial for ensuring social justice, especially in contexts where political practices undermine fairness, equity, and human rights. When political systems are marked by corruption, authoritarianism, or policies that suppress dissent, social leaders act as catalysts for change, championing the needs of marginalized communities and holding power structures accountable.
I am not blaming politics itself, but rather the practices of political parties, where one party leaves another and repeatedly makes the same mistakes. The high volume of people involved in politics within each party contributes to this issue. To enhance their popularity, individuals often utilise social status and public pressure to showcase their affiliation with a political party. For example, during social gatherings, such as marriage ceremonies, people feel the need to display their identity as members of the Bangladesh Awami League or the BNP. Both parties have a significant number of grassroots activists who take pride in their political association. Moreover, the general public tends to prioritise individuals based on their political affiliations, which is uncommon in more stable countries.
This situation is not limited to within the country; it is quite remarkable that millions of Bangladeshis working abroad, whether as expatriates or non-resident Bangladeshis, are also deeply engaged in politics. Their party affiliations often divide them, reflecting a lack of unity among Bangladeshis living outside the country.
In oppressive political climates, those who are marginalised may be silenced or ignored, while unjust policies often go unchallenged. Empowering social leaders helps amplify these voices, bringing visibility to issues that might otherwise be overlooked or actively suppressed.
Bad political practices thrive in environments lacking oversight. Social leaders act as watchdogs, providing the public with information and calling out unethical practices. Empowering these leaders fosters a culture where authorities must answer the people, reducing abuses of power and corruption.
Empowering social leaders in contexts of political corruption and oppression is essential because they provide hope, representation, and accountability. By equipping them with the skills, resources, and platforms to advocate for change, societies can build a movement toward justice that endures beyond the limits of any individual political regime. Social leaders serve as the conscience of society, demanding integrity and equity, and their empowerment is a vital step toward creating a future where social justice prevails despite the challenges posed by bad political practices.
Political leaders will take on the role of social leaders to demonstrate their capabilities and earn the endorsement of the public. They will engage in continuous efforts, responding to the needs of those suffering in society. If any political party commits to this daily practice, it will be difficult for other parties to compete using traditional methods. This approach can foster exemplary leadership in Bangladesh at a time when there is a strong desire for reform. No policy will be effective unless it is supported by good practices.
(The writer is a research fellow of Liberty University, Virginia, USA and lawyer of Supreme Court of Bangladesh).