The parliamentary election in Bangladesh, which took place recently, has garnered significant interest from many local and international political entities due to the boycott of the poll by the opposition party, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP). Hence, there was apprehension among all stakeholders regarding the potential for the election to be held in a manner that is free, fair, and credible, as well as whether the international community would acknowledge the election's results.
Although the BNP did not participate in the electoral process, the election remained competitive with the involvement of 29 political parties. In addition, a significant number of candidates participated in the election as independent candidates. The independent candidates were inspired when the central leadership of the Awami League announced their decision to permit the election of independent candidates within the party. The party employed a political strategy intended to foster a competitive and participatory election. Given the election's relatively high level of competition, which was evident from the 41.8% voter turnout, the effectiveness of this strategy was clear.
Despite the ruling Awami League's overwhelming triumph in securing 222 electoral seats, 62 independent candidates became victorious in the election, surpassing 55 members of parliament, including many ministers. The Jatiya Party's outcome was unfavourable, as they secured a mere 11 seats, leading to a critical situation where the party was on the verge of splitting. While local and foreign observers were satisfied with the voting process, there was uncertainty over the international community's acceptance of the election result and their level of excitement towards the new government.
Following the announcement of the election result, many countries, like China, India, Russia, and Japan, sent their congratulations to Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina for her victory in the election. The government received compliments from several other countries. Contrarily, the US and the UK released statements asserting that the election lacked fairness and credibility. Nevertheless, they conveyed their dedication to collaborating with Bangladesh.
In the field of diplomacy, the choice of words holds immense significance. When the governments of the United States and the United Kingdom expressed their desire to collaborate with Bangladesh, it indicated that they had some concerns over the new leadership. Nevertheless, once a few days have elapsed, global dynamics have started shifting. Following the appointment of the new foreign minister, the ambassadors of the United States and the European Union convened with the newly appointed minister.
During the press conference held after the meeting, both ambassadors conveyed their intention to enhance the bilateral relationship with the current government. The EU ambassador conveyed that the relationships between Bangladesh and the EU would see a significant transformation in the upcoming five years under a new government, as per a “new generation” agreement. The following day, the European Union's ambassador met the PM to express his congratulations. Several issues were discussed during their conversations. The envoy conveyed his government’s determination to enhance commercial ties with Bangladesh.
What is the significance of the message in a political context? Many self-proclaimed intellectuals were preoccupied with discussing various fabricated news reports on social media talk shows. They continue to actively sow doubt among Bangladeshis even after the election by implying that many countries, most notably the United States and the European Union, may impose economic sanctions.
Nevertheless, recent political events suggest that this concern is unlikely to be well-founded. The BNP and its allies were relying on the US government with the intention that they would not enhance their relationship with the government. Alternatively, they would exert pressure on the government to induce destabilization.
This anticipation is not feasible due to the significant influence of geopolitical factors on the politics of Bangladesh. An impressive achievement of the AL government is their ability to maintain a balanced foreign policy despite the ongoing competition between India and China in the area. They have successfully managed to uphold their relationships with both nations.
Recent events have shown that both nations and Russia have indicated their shared dedication to the matter of Bangladeshi politics, indicating their desire for the current government to remain in power. Consequently, they opposed any external influence from other major world powers in the internal affairs and electoral processes of Bangladesh.
Another crucial aspect is that the Japanese government, a significant development partner of Bangladesh, sent congratulations to the PM following the election outcome and conveyed their determination to collaborate with our government. From a regional and geopolitical standpoint, the superpowers, initially somewhat doubtful about the election, have since adjusted their plans significantly.
The change in the geopolitical scene has conferred legitimacy on both the election and the government. Following the significant transition, it is expected that the country will move forward in a state of political stability. Undoubtedly, the BNP has refused to acknowledge the election outcome. Consequently, they would make concerted efforts to discredit the government, alleging that the election was biased.
Given the changing domestic and international circumstances, it is evident that the BNP will not be able to exert any influence on the government. Neither do they have the public support to mobilize a political movement, nor can they rely on the support of their international allies who backed them before the election. While the government may achieve stability, it is imperative to diligently control the market process and build effective governance, ensuring accountability, transparency, and minimizing corruption. By accomplishing these objectives, they will be capable of obtaining greater support from the populace.
Dr Pranab Kumar Panday is a Professor in the Department of Public Administration at the University of Rajshahi.
