In the streets of Dhaka, Bangladesh's capital, a notable change from 2024 is visible: the police uniforms have shifted from blue and green to gray and brown. This change, implemented in November, aims to differentiate the police from those responsible for the brutal suppression of student protests that resulted in over 1,400 casualties. However, many protest leaders express concern that this mere change in attire will be the only outcome of their struggle for democratic reform, rather than meaningful systemic change. Activist Tajina Tamim Hapsa from Dhaka University articulated their desire not just for a change in uniforms but for a fundamental overhaul of the system itself.

The parliamentary elections in Bangladesh, held recently, were seen as a litmus test for the effectiveness of student movements. Preliminary results indicate a clear victory for the nationalist BNP party, which could lead the government independently. This shift in power dynamics raises questions about the future of democracy in Bangladesh and the role of younger generations in shaping political discourse. Students who have long been at the forefront of protests are now left wondering if their sacrifices will lead to real change or merely cosmetic alterations intended to appease public sentiment.

As Bangladesh navigates this crucial electoral period, the implications of superficial reforms juxtaposed against the backdrop of entrenched authoritarianism are stark. Observers both domestically and internationally will be monitoring how these elections unfold and what they mean for the ongoing struggle for democracy in the country. The situation highlights the broader challenges faced by societies striving to dismantle authoritarian regimes, as even minor changes can be misleading amidst a lack of genuine reform.