Priyanka Tiwari
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Suspense crime, Digital Desk : Bangladesh is witnessing growing civil unrest as government employees in Dhaka continue to protest against the recently enacted Public Service (Amendment) Ordinance 2025. This law allows dismissal of public servants without departmental proceedings, sparking significant backlash.
For the fourth consecutive day, administrative operations at the Secretariat have been severely disrupted by demonstrations. Protesters demanded the law's repeal, labeling it repressive and unconstitutional. As of May 27, the protest was temporarily suspended following government assurances of a review.
Contentious Ordinance Sparks Backlash
The Public Service (Amendment) Ordinance 2025 modifies the Public Service Act 2018, introducing new classifications of misconduct. Critics argue that it enables arbitrary dismissals without fair process, violating constitutional rights.
The protests have been organized under the Bangladesh Secretariat Officers and Employees Coordination Council. Demonstrators have pledged to resume their campaign if the law is not fully repealed.
Government Opens Dialogue Amid Mounting Pressure
In response to growing tensions, government representatives met with protest leaders inside the Secretariat compound to negotiate terms. Although the protest was paused after the promise of a review, skepticism remains among the civil workforce.
Wider Political Turmoil Under Interim Regime
The unrest reflects a broader crisis in Bangladesh. Since the ousting of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in August 2024, the country has been under the leadership of an unelected interim government led by Mohammad Yunus.
The regime has faced calls for electoral reform, criticism over decision-making, and public discontent. The suspension of the Awami League’s registration and the banning of its activities have further deepened the divide.
Military’s Response and Political Concerns
The military has issued statements asserting its support for national stability and distancing itself from any conflict with the interim government. Brigadier General M Nazim-ud-Daula stated that the army is cooperating with the government, although he emphasized that the military will not compromise on national security.
Tensions remain, particularly around the proposed humanitarian corridor to Myanmar’s Rakhine state and strategic decisions made without military consultation.
Military Pushes for Elections
Army Chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman and other top military officials have urged for general elections by December 2025, emphasizing the need for a democratically elected government. Concerns were also raised over foreign management of key assets such as Chattogram Port and the introduction of Starlink internet services by Elon Musk’s SpaceX.
According to the Daily Star, Gen Zaman stressed that only an elected government can ensure long-term stability in Bangladesh. He also warned against further policy decisions without electoral legitimacy.
Business Sector Joins Chorus of Concern
Alongside the civil service, members of Bangladesh’s business community have begun voicing concerns over governance, adding to the growing sense of unease across sectors.
As protests gain momentum and political uncertainty deepens, Bangladesh remains at a critical juncture, with questions around governance, military influence, and democratic restoration taking center stage.
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