Narratives of Authoritarianism

This book is a collection of my writings, reflecting my journey as an academic, political commentator, and survivor of enforced disappearance under the government of Sheikh Hasina. In 2017, I was kidnapped, tortured, and unlawfully detained for 44 days by state agents—a crime that constitutes a gross violation of human rights and is tantamount to a crime against humanity. My enforced disappearance was not an isolated incident but part of a broader state-sponsored campaign of repression targeting dissenting voices, journalists, academics, and opposition figures. I consider myself among the fortunate few to have survived such an ordeal. My release was made possible only after a national and international outcry, with academics, students, journalists, and civil society organizations from Bangladesh and abroad advocating for my freedom. My case became emblematic of the growing authoritarianism in Bangladesh, reflecting the shrinking space for free thought, speech, and political discourse under Hasina’s rule. However, my survival came at a significant cost. Like many others who have dared to speak against authoritarian excesses, I was forced into exile—a painful but necessary decision to continue my work. My journey in exile first took me to Norway, where I found temporary refuge, before I eventually settled in Australia. But exile did not mean silence. From abroad, I have continued my intellectual resistance through writing, research, and advocacy, ensuring that the injustices I witnessed—and endured—are not forgotten. Today, I am privileged to be one of the prominent international voices documenting the erosion of democracy in Bangladesh. My work has been featured in leading policy and academic platforms, including The Diplomat Magazine, Lowy Institute, Georgetown Journal of International Affairs, 360.info, The Conversation Australia, and The Conversation USA, among others. Many of these articles have been republished by major global newspapers and digital platforms, amplifying my insights and exposing the realities of Bangladesh’s political crisis to an international audience. This book is more than just a collection of essays; it is a historical chronicle of Sheikh Hasina’s authoritarianism and the resilience of democratic resistance. It captures: ● The rise and consolidation of autocracy in Bangladesh, where opposition voices are persecuted, independent media is muzzled, and state institutions are weaponized to sustain authoritarian control. ● The human cost of dictatorship, as seen through enforced disappearances, arbitrary arrests, and the systematic suppression of human rights defenders, journalists, and academics. ● The fight for democracy from exile, where voices like mine continue to document, analyze, and resist state oppression beyond national borders and after the fall of Hasina. This book is an essential read for scholars, policymakers, journalists, and human rights advocates who seek to understand the nature of authoritarianism in Bangladesh, the mechanisms of state repression, and the global dimensions of exiled resistance against tyranny. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to Mahabub Rahman, Dr. Saimum Parvez, and Tahseen Nower Prachi for their support and contributions.