Colonialism has not disappeared; it has evolved into a more subtle form of control. Britain, once a dominant force in South Asia, continues to exert influence over its former colonies, including Bangladesh. The creation of Bangladesh and its subsequent history reveal Britain’s ongoing involvement. At the same time, the United States has emerged as a competing power, using figures like Dr. Muhammad Yunus to further its interests. The situation in Bangladesh exemplifies the continued colonial competition between Britain and the United States, shaping the nation’s political dynamics.
Britain’s Hand in the Creation of Bangladesh
The partition of India in 1947 marked the beginning of a new era for the subcontinent. Britain, having established its dominance through divide and rule, played a key role in the creation of Pakistan, which included East Pakistan, now known as Bangladesh. Britain’s strategy was to maintain influence by supporting factions that aligned with its interests. When East Pakistan sought independence in 1971, Britain’s backing was crucial. Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the leader of the independence movement, was viewed as a British ally, ensuring that Britain retained a foothold in the newly formed Bangladesh.
Following independence, Bangladesh remained within Britain’s sphere of influence. Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, and later his daughter Sheikh Hasina, continued to align with British interests. Hasina’s government worked to suppress American influence within the country, maintaining Britain’s dominance in the political and military spheres. This legacy of British control has had a lasting impact on Bangladesh’s governance.
British Influence in Bangladesh Today
Sheikh Hasina’s government reflects the continuity of British influence in Bangladesh. Her father’s close ties with Britain laid the groundwork for her own political career. Hasina’s regime consistently prioritized British interests, often at the expense of American proxies. During her time in power, she actively opposed Islamic movements, reflecting the secular policies favored by Britain. Her efforts to curb American influence further entrenched British control over Bangladesh’s political and military institutions.
General Waker-uz-Zaman’s rise to power is a direct result of this British legacy. His military background, combined with his connections to the British-educated elite, positioned him as a key figure in the recent political upheaval. As a trusted ally of Sheikh Hasina, he played a crucial role in maintaining British influence within the military. His actions during the recent crisis, including the exile of Hasina, demonstrate the enduring power of Britain’s influence in Bangladesh.
America’s Proxy: Dr. Muhammad Yunus
While Britain has maintained its influence through figures like General Waker-uz-Zaman, the United States has sought to establish its own foothold in Bangladesh. Dr. Muhammad Yunus, a Nobel laureate and advocate of microcredit, has emerged as America’s key proxy in the country. His rise to global prominence, supported by American figures like Bill Clinton, aligns with U.S. interests in promoting neoliberal economic policies in Bangladesh.
The appointment of Yunus as the head of the interim government following Hasina’s departure illustrates America’s strategic interest in the region. By placing Yunus in a position of power, the United States aims to counterbalance British influence and expand its control over Bangladesh’s political and economic affairs. This move is part of a broader strategy to assert American dominance in South Asia, challenging Britain’s long-standing influence.
The Power Struggle: Colonialism by Proxy
The recent political upheaval in Bangladesh, culminating in General Waker-uz-Zaman’s takeover, represents a continuation of colonial power struggles. Britain, through Waker-uz-Zaman, has sought to retain control over Bangladesh’s military and political institutions. The calculated exile of Sheikh Hasina, a British ally, was a strategic move to prevent direct conflict with American interests.
The current power struggle between General Waker-uz-Zaman and Dr. Muhammad Yunus reflects the broader colonial competition between Britain and the United States. While Waker-uz-Zaman represents the continuation of British influence, Yunus serves as America’s proxy in the region. This ongoing conflict highlights the persistence of colonial power dynamics in Bangladesh, where former colonial powers continue to exert control through local agents.
Colonialism’s Continued Influence
The situation in Bangladesh highlights that colonialism has not disappeared; it has simply taken on new forms. Britain’s role in the creation of Bangladesh and its continued influence through figures like General Waker-uz-Zaman show the enduring impact of colonialism. At the same time, America’s involvement in the country, through proxies like Dr. Muhammad Yunus, reflects the ongoing competition between former colonial powers. As Bangladesh navigates this complex power struggle, its sovereignty remains compromised by the lingering influence of external forces.
