Rebuilding trust, unity and a shared national future

Political division is a universal reality. No country in the world is free from differences in ideology, beliefs, or political allegiance. Even in the most established democracies, allegations of vote rigging, manipulation, and misinformation surface from time to time.

Yet, despite these imperfections, a broad sense of rationality prevails in those societies. Political rivals unite on matters of national interest. They sit together during crises, negotiate with maturity, and protect the state from sliding into chaos. Rarely do we hear accusations that mainstream political groups are "selling the country," nor do national issues become hostages of personal or party-based bitterness.

In Bangladesh, the situation is markedly different. Political intolerance, deep mistrust, and perpetual hostility between major political forces have become deeply entrenched since independence. This division has cost the nation dearly.

In fifty-four years, Bangladesh has made undeniable progress in many sectors -- but the pace of advancement has repeatedly been pulled back by political instability, confrontational politics, and a lack of national unity. The country can build massive bridges and tunnels, but it struggles to undertake what could symbolically be called a "liver transplant" -- a clean, transparent, and trusted political system.

The burden of history and the crisis of trust

Our emergence as an independent country was one of the most defining moments in South Asian history. Bangladesh was born out of immense sacrifice and an unshakable desire for dignity, freedom, and justice. The Liberation War was not merely a political separation from Pakistan; it was an assertion of identity and humanity. Geography, culture, language, and economic deprivation made the Pakistan framework unsustainable long before 1971.

India supported the liberation movement, and our strategic alignment at that moment was shaped by circumstances. But over the decades, that history -- rich, complex, and heroic -- has often been used as a political weapon. The debate over who is "pro-liberation" and who is "anti-liberation" has divided society far more deeply than necessary. A large segment still openly questions Bangladesh's independence, and this disbelief continues to stir emotional and social tensions. Yet, the overwhelming majority proudly uphold the spirit of 1971.

Ironically, despite fierce ideological battles, Bangladesh's major political camps -- AL, BNP, Jatiya Party, and others -- often resemble one another when it comes to patronage, corruption, wealth accumulation, and the pursuit of power.Jamaat-e-Islami speaks of Islamic values but carries the heavy burden of its wartime role, making many citizens reluctant to trust its intentions. The far-left remains too radical for mainstream society, and the far-right too extreme for a diverse and modern state.

This leaves an empty center -- the space for moderation, tolerance, patriotism, and responsible leadership. It is precisely this missing middle that Bangladesh desperately needs today.

A new generation seeking a new path

Bangladesh's young population is increasingly frustrated with old political grudges. They want to move beyond divisive historical rhetoric without forgetting history itself. They seek progress, dignity, opportunities, and global integration. They want a country where leadership is sincere, visionary, and guided by the spirit of the Liberation War -- not merely using it as political capital.

The new generation values technology, global competitiveness, education, English proficiency, and a peaceful social environment. They demand leaders who understand the world, appreciate diversity, and believe in development over division.

The way forward: Moderation, patriotism, and inclusion

A sincere, honest, patriotic, and moderate leader rooted in the values of 1971 is the call of our time. Bangladesh needs leadership that is neither authoritarian nor anarchic, neither extreme left nor extreme right, neither vengeful nor complacent. We need leaders who carry moral courage -- who will not loot public wealth or send fortunes abroad, who will uphold institutions, and who will listen.

Bangladesh is a Muslim-majority country, but it is also home to people of diverse beliefs. The Constitution and the Liberation War both teach us that this land belongs equally to Muslims, Hindus, Buddhists, Christians, and the third gender community. Peace and prosperity depend on respecting all.

Empowering women: A fundamental priority

No nation can progress while half its population remains unsafe, undervalued, or excluded. Women in Bangladesh have made remarkable strides, yet major gaps remain. True empowerment means ensuring:

⇒ equal participation in political, economic, and social sectors,

⇒ safety at home, work, and public spaces,

⇒ recognition not as a "favored group" but as full human beings,

⇒ freedom to pursue education, mobility, and leadership.

A progressive Bangladesh must open all doors for women -- not symbolically, but practically. We have our own heritage and social values that favour a bit conservatism. This can be a great protection from curses of the so-called 'liberalism.'

Time for a national healing

Bangladesh stands today at a critical juncture. Trust between political actors is at its lowest. Confidence in institutions is fragile. Public frustration is rising. Yet the same nation that won freedom against impossible odds can rise again if its political leadership embraces maturity, humility, and national unity.

The path forward is not complicated: moderation, tolerance, democracy, accountability, and a shared commitment to development. Bangladesh has the talent, the youth, the resources, and the dreams. What we lack is trust -- and leadership that can restore it.

A united, forward-looking Bangladesh is not a distant dream. It is a necessity. And the moment to rebuild that unity is now.

Md Shafiul Alam is a senior journalist and member of National Press Club, and Bangla Academy.

shafiul.alam.sac@yahoo.com