ABSTRACT
The chapter argues that a citizen-centered governance which is democratic in substance has been a key feature in high-performing Asian economies. It attempts to assess the political and economic developments in Bangladesh and outlines the possibilities of creating an inclusive democratic society. A citizen-centered governance is the ultimate guarantor of both sustaining democracy and development in Bangladesh. The democratic system will be consolidated by creating a rational, neutral state system based on the rule of law. The chapter discusses the relationship between governance and development outcomes. It outlines a political framework for Bangladesh and postulates some strategies towards deepening democracy and institutionalization of citizen-centered governance. A citizen-centered governance is a prerequisite for the wellbeing of all the people by creating a socially stable and culturally vibrant society – in a word, a thriving society. Government effectiveness, an important facilitator for development, may be hampered by larger political culture.
