Abu Jakir :
Amidst the political landscape in the country, questions arise about the relevance and strength of the ruling Awami League-led 14-party alliance.
While the coalition technically still exists, whispers among insiders suggest that its significance is dwindling, raising concerns about its future.
The Awami League, basking in its fourth consecutive term in power, seems to have outgrown the need for forging alliances with like-minded political parties.
This sentiment has led to speculation that the ruling party is no longer interested in nurturing its ties with alliance partners.
Workers Party president Rashed Khan Menon voiced concerns over the fading future of the 14-Party Alliance, emphasizing his party’s commitment to representing the interests of the common people both within and outside the parliament.
Similarly, Jatiya Samajtantrik Dal (JSD-Inu) president Hasanul Haq Inu pointed out that the decision to continue with the 14-Party Alliance lies with the Awami League.
However, he noted the current lack of activity within the alliance, hinting at a potential rift in its cohesion.
Despite the perceived stagnation within the alliance, Inu affirmed that the “movement for good governance” would remain their central focus.
He emphasized their unwavering stance against communalism and hinted at taking to the streets to achieve their goals as a separate political entity.
When questioned about the future of the AL-led 14-party alliance, AL general secretary Obaidul Quader affirmed that his party, the Awami League, will continue its relationships with its alliance partners.
However, the shifting dynamics within the political landscape have prompted left-leaning allies outside the pro-Awami League quarters to consider alternative alliances.
Sources indicate that the Workers Party is endeavoring to revive the old 11-Party Alliance, which existed before the formation of the 14-Party Alliance.
This move aims to unite left-leaning parties without the Awami League’s involvement.
The Workers Party’s efforts include reaching out to the Jatiya Samajtantrik Dal (JSD) to bolster their alliance.
These parties, which have remained active across the country, have initiated discussions regarding leading a coalition of left-leaning parties independent of the Awami League.
Furthermore, there are aspirations to strengthen communication with other parties such as the Communist Party of Bangladesh (CPB), Oikya National Awami Party (NAP), and Bangladesh Jashod led by Sharif Nurul Ambia.
While the formation of a new coalition is perceived as a lengthy process, allied leaderships are gearing up to take a strong stance on pressing issues such as price hikes and corruption.
They believe that active participation in such movements is essential to maintaining relevance among the common people.
The city unit and youth front of JSD have been conducting programs on a limited scale in protest of the price hike.
However, they plan to escalate their efforts by organizing rallies and processions regularly after the Eid-ul-Fitr holidays.
Their protests will target corruption, price hikes, factionalism, and various irregularities within the government, under the banner of the ‘movement for good governance’.
Additionally, JSD reaffirms its stance against communalism, militancy, and war criminals.
