In the lead-up to the general election, Bangladesh faces heightened tension as the BNP-Jamaat-led hardline factions persist in disruptive protests and road blockades. Their insistence on a caretaker government, an unconstitutional provision in Bangladesh’s democratic process, fuels unrest despite its lack of international adherence.
Conversely, the government assures a fair electoral process, prioritizing voters’ rights. However, amidst concocted claims, BNP leaders provoke the US and Western partners to pressure the Awami League government, attempting to sway results through unethical means. Such calls for foreign interference sow seeds of a treacherous conspiracy against Bangladesh’s sovereignty, inviting foreign intervention to undermine the democratically elected government.
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The assurance of a fair, peaceful, and unbiased 12th National Assembly election remains a focal point reiterated by the Awami League, government authorities, and the esteemed Election Commission. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, a staunch advocate for electoral integrity, has fervently echoed this commitment both within the nation and across international platforms.
A Landscape of Escalating Tensions
As the days leading to the election dwindle, tensions among candidates intensify visibly. Reports of supporters dismantling opposition posters, vandalizing offices, and disrupting rallies have surged. Tragically, incidents of election-related violence have resulted in one fatality and 18 injuries, stemming from personal disputes. With just a short span remaining until the election, continued breaches of the electoral code threaten to mar the conducive atmosphere crucial for a free and fair electoral process.
Individuals who have historically collaborated politically for years seem to have pivoted against each other in this electoral climate, prompting queries about this abrupt shift from cooperation to hostility. On 14th December, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina stated that “Those who resort to arson attacks, destructions, and removing fishplates from rail lines have no right to do politics.” this statement comes after BNP-Jamaat led sabotage activities led to the derailment of a train in Gazipur; resulting in widespread damage and the death of an innocent shopkeeper. As of 8th December, the number of arson attacks stood at 267. It should be noted that such sabotage and arson activities are more in line with the modus operandi of terrorist organizations than that of a political party. If one looks at the origin, political campaign and the overall history of BNP, it becomes abundantly clear that the Prime Minister’s statement holds credence.
Election Participation
The Awami League leader urged party members to engage the public actively, stressing the importance of citizens freely electing their preferred candidates, regardless of party affiliations. She highlighted the symbol ‘Boat,’ linking it to the nation’s economic growth and development, paralleling it with the independence achieved in 1971.
To ensure a smooth electoral process, the premier urged all candidates and their supporters to conduct proceedings peacefully, aiming to prevent allegations and encourage high voter turnout at polling stations.
Despite the government’s proactive measures for a fair election, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and Jamaat are accused of deliberate disruptions, alleged sabotage, and international conspiracies. They threaten to boycott the parliamentary election and disrupt its peaceful conduct while advocating for the revival of the caretaker government system, which is constitutionally contentious.
Clash Between Values and Actions
Initially, hopes were high that this election would not devolve into a mere clash between competing candidates. However, the dangerous perception that victory must be attained at all costs starkly contradicts the democratic ethos. Elections are meant for voters to exercise their freedom to choose amidst healthy competition. Sadly, this foundational truth often gets obscured as individuals engage in electoral battles, disregarding codes of conduct, societal norms, legal obligations, and basic human relations.
Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Kazi Habibul Awal recently conveyed his concerns regarding the apprehension of potential polling agents after they provided their information to the Election Commission. He issued a stern warning: any allegation of vote rigging within a polling booth would prompt the suspension of balloting in the respective center.
Some candidates actively stoke conflict to gain an edge over opponents, leading to clashes exacerbated by disrespectful remarks from supporters. While disagreements are inevitable, resorting to violence is a direct contradiction to rational behavior. Despite calls for strikes and blockades by boycotting parties, instances of violence have marred the electoral landscape, escalating tensions ahead of the impending election.
Looking Ahead
There are concerns that those boycotting the election might seek to disrupt it clandestinely, potentially causing significant disruptions. Immediate legal action against those instigating unrest is imperative, and the Election Commission must intervene decisively to curb irregularities. Allegations suggest disruptions in certain constituencies, warranting swift investigation and preventive measures to safeguard the electoral integrity of these areas.
As the nation approaches this critical electoral juncture, the onus lies on political parties, candidates, and electoral authorities to ensure the sanctity of the democratic process. Upholding the values of fairness, peace, and unbiased elections is not just a commitment but an imperative for the progression of democracy.
