The Bangladesh Awami League (AL) achieved a decisive win in the 12th national parliamentary elections on January 7, 2024, having secured 223 seats, as anticipated. The election results hold great significance for the country's ongoing progress, as any conflict may have altered the dynamics of the political environment.
Since the election was announced, the Election Commission (EC) and the government have been committed to conducting a free, fair, and credible electoral process. The outcome demonstrates such credibility through its participatory nature as 62 independent candidates (though most affiliated with the ruling party) secured notable victories. The overwhelming majority of voters exercised their right to vote, strengthening democratic practices in the country by countering voter indifference. The Jatiya Party only secured a win in 11 seats -- which is a matter of concern. International observers have expressed their overwhelming satisfaction with the electoral process. Therefore, taking into account the whole atmosphere of the election, it can be said that it was conducted in a manner that was unbiased, just, and trustworthy and carried out in a celebratory manner.
This election will no doubt be labelled as non-participatory by a coalition of civil society members, academics, and the Bangladesh National Party (BNP) due to the absence of BNP's participation. They may argue that any election lacks genuine participation without significant political opposition. However, who is truly to blame if a political party persists in boycotting elections to achieve their unreasonable request?
The BNP's decision to participate in the election hinged on their confirmation of winning and forming the government. To secure the confirmation, they relied on their external friends who pressured the government to guarantee a free, fair, and trustworthy election. Due to their inability to obtain such a confirmation, they abstained from participating in the election. Instead, they proclaimed their intention to resist the election and orchestrated ongoing strikes and blockades, as well as engaging in acts of arson.
The recent act of arson targeting the Benapole Express train in Gopibagh, Dhaka, has deeply affected the sentiments of the majority of the citizens in the country. Numerous arson attacks were executed on other vehicles as well. The party must be held responsible for the consequences as they explicitly declared their intention to oppose the election under any circumstances.
The victory of the present government in this election will exert pressure on the government to meet the public's expectations. Before the election, the ruling party pledged to enhance governance, mitigate corruption, and regulate market prices. Consequently, they will face close examination from the electorate who voted for them. The public will anticipate the government implementing proactive measures to fulfill its pledges.
The BNP and its international allies will persist in attempting to compel the government into a state of economic adversity shortly. Hence, the government must exercise prudence in every action it takes. The government benefits from the fact that the BNP did not get any backing from the general populace, who hold the ultimate authority. Despite their endeavours to dissuade the citizens of Bangladesh from participating in the election, they were unable to stop its occurrence and thus failed to garner public backing.
An overwhelming majority can pose a significant threat to a democratic system. Given that the present government led by Sheikh Hasina is about to assume power for the fourth straight term, they are expected to harbour distinct perspectives during the next five years. It is important to use caution when selecting suitable individuals for specific positions within the newly formed administration.
Several ministers in the previous government faced extensive criticism regarding their credibility. Infiltrators exerted significant control over several crucial positions, ranging from the central to the local level. The ascendancy of the infiltrators had marginalized the dedicated party men, distancing it from the political mainstream. The government must address these concerns with utmost seriousness.
Despite criticism from some individuals, the EC deserves recognition for successfully holding a free, fair, and trustworthy election nationwide. The EC has diligently undertaken all necessary measures to ensure the election's credibility. Instances when the competing candidates have alleged a lack of level playing fields are infrequent. We anticipate that the election will be a foundation for strengthening and unifying our electoral system.
Dr Pranab Kumar Panday is a Professor in the Department of Public Administration at the University of Rajshahi.
