In a seminar titled ‘Victory of Democracy in the twelfth parliamentary elections,’ held on Saturday at Maulana Mohammad Akram Khan Hall of the National Press Club in Dhaka, key speakers commended Bangladesh’s 12th general election as a significant triumph for democracy. The event, organized by the ‘Education, Research and Development Forum of Bangladesh (ERDFB),’ a research-based organization comprising university teachers, drew attention to the peaceful and credible nature of the recently concluded parliamentary elections.
You can also watch the full video: Seminar On Democray’s Triumph in 12th National Election.
Bangladesh’s 12th general election, which took place on January 7, witnessed a voter turnout of over 41.08%, defying challenges posed by strikes and violence orchestrated by opposition parties, particularly the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP). Despite these obstacles, the electorate re-elected the Bangladesh Awami League and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina for the fourth consecutive term.
Addressing the seminar as the chief guest, Professor Dr. Emdadul Haque Chowdhury highlighted the election’s role in propelling Bangladesh’s development forward. He praised the fairness and impartiality of the election, emphasizing the low voter turnout in certain areas due to fear of violent activities by opposition parties. Professor Chowdhury criticized the opposition, accusing them of practicing election terrorism and attempting to gain power with foreign support.
Key Note Speech
The keynote speaker, Professor Dr. Zeenat Huda, accused the BNP of boycotting the elections and conspiring to sabotage the democratic process. She pointed out instances of violence and questioned the party’s commitment to human rights. Dr. Huda credited the victory to the people who, through their votes, defeated anti-independence forces and upheld democracy.
International observers, including those from China, Russia, the European Union, and the United Nations, expressed satisfaction with the free, fair, and impartial nature of the elections. Peter Haas from the United States expressed a desire to collaborate with Bangladesh under Sheikh Hasina’s leadership.
Speech from President and General Secretary of ERDFB
President of ERDFB, Professor Dr. Md. Sajjad Hossain, emphasized the strength of Bangladesh’s democracy, particularly in the face of domestic and foreign conspiracies. He praised the young generation for ensuring the victory of democracy through their active participation in the elections.
The General Secretary of ERDFB, Professor Dr. Md. Badruzzaman Bhuiyan, highlighted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s role in transforming Bangladesh from a corruption-ridden state to a democratic one. He declared the victory of the Awami League in the 12th National Assembly elections as a confirmation of the people’s endorsement of democracy.
The seminar, attended by notable figures including Professor Dr. Soumitra Shekhar Dey, Professor Dr. Selina Akhtar, Professor Dr. Delwar Hossain, and Professor Dr. Md. Kamrul Alam Khan, concluded with a shared commitment to move the country forward through fair politics and continued support for the current government. The international community, represented by various countries and organizations, welcomed the formation of the new government in Bangladesh.
Professor Dr. Md. Badruzzaman Bhuiyan, The honourable Vice Chancellor (Routine Duties) of Barishal University and General Secretary of ERDFB conducted the seminar.
