What appears to be a national conversation about reform, democracy, and stability is better understood as a political economy of discourse shaped by incentives, risks, and timing. To understand Bangladesh’s current political discourse, it is not enough to look at what political actors are saying. This is where political discourse becomes cautious and defensive. It is the political economy of transition itself, which incentivises caution, fragmentation, and narrative management. Siamul Huq Rabbany is a development and governance analyst focusing on political economy, democratic transitions, and state reform.

Source: Dhaka Tribune January 15, 2026 06:09 UTC