In 2021, Al Jazeera, a Qatar-based international news network, released an investigative documentary titled “All the Prime Minister’s Men,” which unearthed shocking allegations of corruption, abuse of power, and systemic state misconduct in Bangladesh. The documentary exposed a network of illicit activities involving former Army Chief General Aziz Ahmed, his family, and other officials, allegedly facilitated and protected by the administration of then-Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.
The revelations outlined how state resources were manipulated to silence political opponents, amass illicit wealth, and secure unchecked power for key individuals in Hasina’s government. The documentary alleged that Sheikh Hasina provided cover for these activities, underscoring a culture of impunity at the highest levels of governance.
The Al Jazeera Report: Key Allegations
The report meticulously detailed how General Aziz Ahmed allegedly used his position to shield his brothers, who had criminal records, and enrich his family. Among the claims were:
- The abduction and silencing of political opponents by state security forces.
- An elaborate scheme to launder money and acquire illegal funds through bribery and extortion.
- Manipulation of the military and law enforcement agencies to consolidate political and personal power.
The documentary became a global sensation, viewed over 10 million times on YouTube, and earned international journalism awards for its thorough investigation.
International Reaction and Sanctions
Following the documentary’s release, the U.S. government, under President Joe Biden, imposed sanctions on General Aziz Ahmed and his brothers, citing gross human rights abuses and financial crimes. These sanctions sent a strong message about the international community’s stance on corruption and abuse of power in Bangladesh.
Sheikh Hasina’s government, however, vehemently denied the allegations, branding the documentary as “false, defamatory, and politically motivated.”
Repercussions for Whistleblowers and Journalists
The fallout from the exposé extended beyond diplomatic condemnation. The whistleblower who leaked crucial information, Zulkarnain Saer Khan, reported that his brother was savagely beaten with iron rods in retaliation. Many others who contributed to the investigation faced threats, harassment, and even exile to protect their lives.
David Bergman, a British journalist who played a pivotal role in the documentary, became a particular target. Documents recovered later revealed that Bangladeshi officials sought to discredit Bergman, spreading false allegations and even contemplating his detention.
Sheikh Hasina’s Government’s Response: Suppression Attempts
In the wake of the exposé, Sheikh Hasina’s administration reportedly prioritized damage control. According to documents obtained by The Sunday Times in August 2024, after a massive student-led uprising, Bangladeshi officials engaged prominent British barristers to explore defamation lawsuits against Al Jazeera.
The records disclosed:
- Sheikh Hasina’s representatives contacted Barrister Desmond Browne QC in February 2021 to discuss legal action against Al Jazeera.
- Browne later introduced the Bangladeshi officials to Clarke-Williams, another UK-based lawyer, who promised to assist with the case.
- Discussions centered on whether the lawsuit should be filed by General Aziz, the government, or a retired military official acting as a proxy.
Despite these extensive efforts, no lawsuit was ultimately filed in the UK courts.
Pressure on Social Media Platforms
Instead of pursuing legal action, the Hasina government shifted focus to pressuring social media platforms like YouTube and Facebook to remove the documentary. Despite repeated attempts, neither platform complied. The Bangladeshi High Court ruled in favor of the government to block access to the video locally, but it remains widely available online, drawing millions of views worldwide.
Implications for Bangladesh
The documentary and subsequent suppression efforts have cast a harsh light on governance in Bangladesh. Critics argue that the Hasina administration’s attempts to discredit and silence dissent highlight an entrenched culture of impunity and authoritarianism.
Human rights organizations have condemned the government’s response, calling it a clear example of intimidation against journalists, whistleblowers, and activists. The findings also underscored the need for greater accountability and transparency in Bangladesh’s military and political institutions.
Sheikh Hasina’s Legacy Under Scrutiny
The controversy surrounding “All the Prime Minister’s Men” has had a lasting impact on Sheikh Hasina’s political legacy. While she has long been credited for economic growth and infrastructure development in Bangladesh, the exposé painted a contrasting picture of governance rife with corruption and human rights violations.
The report has become a rallying cry for opposition groups and civil society, further intensifying demands for free and fair elections, judicial reforms, and accountability for state crimes.
As the fallout continues to reverberate, the exposé remains a significant milestone in investigative journalism, highlighting the vital role of media in holding power to account and exposing the dark underbelly of unchecked governance.
