The Awami League (AL) in Bangladesh is gearing up for the upcoming national elections, with a key focus on ensuring a healthy voter turnout. The party believes that a high turnout will enhance the election’s acceptability on the international stage. AL sources estimate that they have 35-40 % of the votes in their favor but are determined to ensure these voters show up at the polls.
Additionally, they plan to mobilize 3 to 3.35 crore government benefits recipients to achieve at least a 50% turnout. To support this effort, the AL will provide transportation for elderly and disabled voters.
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The party will establish coordination committees at the constituency and polling center levels to engage in door-to-door campaigning and encourage voter participation. The AL recognizes the need to address declining voter interest in recent elections, aiming to rekindle enthusiasm for casting ballots.
Awami League’s Strategy to Boost Voter Turnout
The upcoming national elections in 2024 are poised to be a crucial event in Bangladesh’s political landscape. The Awami League (AL), the ruling party, is leaving no stone unturned to ensure a substantial voter turnout. With an eye on international acceptance and a participatory election, AL has devised a comprehensive strategy.
Focus on Voter Turnout
AL’s primary focus is on achieving a higher voter turnout, rather than aiming for a landslide victory. This reflects the party’s commitment to ensuring a peaceful and participatory election process.
Mobilizing AL’s Existing Voter Base
AL sources believe that the party already has a significant percentage of voters in its “bank.” This means they have a core group of supporters ready to cast their votes. However, the challenge lies in ensuring these voters show up at the polling stations.
Targeting Government Benefit Recipients
One of AL’s strategies involves reaching out to the recipients of government benefits.
Assisting Elderly and Disabled Voters
To make the election process more inclusive, the AL plans to provide transportation for elderly and disabled voters on election day. This move reflects their commitment to ensuring that all eligible citizens have the opportunity to vote.
Constituency and Polling Center Coordination Committees
AL intends to set up constituency- and polling center-wise coordination committees. These committees will engage in door-to-door campaigning, motivating voters to show up at the polling stations. This approach marks a significant shift in election strategies compared to recent years.
Revitalized Door-to-Door Campaigning
AL insiders assert that vigorous door-to-door campaigning will precede the 2024 general election, a practice that has waned in recent years. This proactive approach aims to reignite voter interest and engagement.
Promoting Participatory Elections
AL policymakers believe that achieving a voter turnout of over 50 percent can reinvigorate the electoral process. Regardless of other parties’ participation, a higher turnout can make the election truly participatory.
Election Timeline and Seat Sharing
Once the Election Commission announces the election schedule in mid-November, the AL plans to unveil its candidates within 15 days. This will provide candidates with ample time for campaigning. The decision on seat sharing with their political allies will be left until the last minute, depending on the decisions made by the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and its allies.
Successful Test Runs in Local Elections
“The experiences gained from the local elections will be instrumental in shaping the national election strategy”
-Kabir Bin Anwar, a former cabinet secretary and now involved in AL’s election strategy
The AL has already tested its strategy in recent local elections, specifically the Rajshahi City Corporation and Cox’s Bazar Municipality polls. In both instances, the voter turnouts exceeded 50 percent, showcasing the effectiveness of their approach.
Kabir Bin Anwar, a former cabinet secretary and now involved in AL’s election strategy, emphasizes the party’s goals. He articulates that their aim is to conduct a free, fair, and peaceful election with increased voter turnout. The experiences gained from the local elections will be instrumental in shaping the national election strategy.
Conclusion
As Bangladesh prepares for the 2024 national elections, the Awami League is determined to foster a high voter turnout. Their multifaceted strategy encompasses mobilizing existing supporters, engaging government benefit recipients, assisting vulnerable voters, and conducting vigorous door-to-door campaigns. By emphasizing a participatory election with a focus on increased turnout, the AL aims to set a new precedent in the political landscape, distinguishing itself from previous election cycles. The success of their strategy, as seen in recent local elections, sets a positive tone for the upcoming national polls.
