This chapter presents a detailed examination of autocratic governance and the decline of bureaucratic institutions under Sheikh Hasina’s leadership in Bangladesh. Since Sheikh Hasina assumed office in January 2009, her autocratic rule, which has persisted for more than 15 years until she fled on August 5, 2024, has demolished almost all the vital institutions of governance in general and has undermined the bureaucratic institutions in particular. The appointment of party loyalists to key institutions such as the election commission, the anti-corruption commission, and the central bank, driven by political interests and ill motives, has heightened the fragility of the country’s bureaucratic framework. This chapter investigates the weakening of two major institutions—civil bureaucracy and the banking sector—focusing on the mechanisms of politicisation involved. It also underscores the repercussions of politicising civil bureaucracy, which accelerates its deterioration. There is a widespread belief that civil administration is crucial for effective governance, fostering a country’s sustainable development through impartiality, independence, and fairness. Yet, its neutrality, as exemplified by Weberian bureaucracy, struggles to take root in Bangladesh. Elevated levels of politicisation within the bureaucracy, particularly in recruitment and promotion practices, have compromised the integrity of the civil service. Since its establishment in 1973, meritocracy and professionalism have been overshadowed by political loyalty, impeding the development of a robust civil service in Bangladesh. This analysis is based on case studies, key informant interviews, and extensive experience as a career civil servant. The findings highlight the pressing need to safeguard the professional rights and institutional independence of civil agencies, thereby fostering a fair and effective civil administration. Such an administration is vital for securing the state's stability and ensuring the efficient delivery of public goods and services. More importantly, this chapter offers valuable insights for scholars and policymakers seeking to strengthen institutional resilience by placing Bangladesh within the broader discourse on governance in politically volatile environments.