Ershad factor
General (Retd) H.M. Ershad was a dictator, no doubt. His nine-year autocratic rule and corrupt politics are still in the memories of people. But the reality is he is now a factor in Bangladesh politics. His is the third force after the two major parties and the polarization of politics in Bangladesh increases his demand particularly to the two major parties. And I think the Awami League is doing the right thing to accommodate General Ershad into their alliance.
Let me clarify why the Awami League needs Ershad. Everyone knows how this major party has been struggling to survive since the assassination of its leader and the Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. The conspirators killed the elite leaders of the AL according to their blueprint they had made after their defeat in the liberation war. Also they attempted several times to kill Sheikh Hasina. However, coming into power 21 years after the assassination of Bangabandu, they tried to find ground under their feet, but could not stand with enough strength because of lack of farsightedness and some leaders' involvement in corruption. The party again experienced a serious setback in the following election in 2001.
So for the sake of its existence, the AL must accept Ershad together with all others including Bikalpa Dhara and LDP, even if necessary the Islamic parties as well. The leftists may strongly object to it, even they can think of leaving the alliance. But before they leave, I would urge them not to make such mistakes again. They committed lots of mistakes in the past boycotting the AL. If they really like to work for the benefit of people and their own existence, they have no other choice but to cooperate with the Awami League. The Awami League should also have lots of things to do. They should look for young talented leaders and bring them in the front line.
General Ershad should also be committed to his words and should not play a dubious role any more. Still he can become a true leader of the people of this country. He also should not put so much pressure on the AL for which they have to face difficulties in distributing seats among the parties to be working together.
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