The Yunus-led interim government, while intending to present itself as a neutral body committed to restoring democracy, is facing increasing criticism for a discernible ideological bias.
Bangladesh is in a crucial state for safeguarding its constitution, protecting sovereignty, and creating pathways to rebuild democratic governance. Ensuring democratic stability by adhering to constitutional principles is not only vital for Bangladesh but also a fundamental necessity for nations globally.
The current administration has exhibited patterns that appear to undermine the significance of the Liberation War in Bangladesh's national discourse -- actions viewed by many as ideologically motivated.
Significant appointments to advisory and administrative roles have included individuals known for downplaying or modifying the historical narratives of the 1971 war, as well as those linked to anti-liberation ideologies.
Moreover, state discourse has increasingly vaguely focused on themes of “neutrality” and “technocratic governance,” moving away from an apparent dedication to the secular and pluralistic values inherent in the nation’s historical identity.
Despite the strong public opposition to political Islamism, the current administration is also facing accusations of covertly reintegrating Islamist-aligned political networks.
Political analysts view this as a form of revenge for Bangladesh’s liberation by genocidal actors in 1971, which included international powers intent on restoring their influence in the region and anti-liberation collaborators, where Jamaat-e-Islami played a significant role. It is worth remembering that Jamaat-e-Islami had been previously marginalized because of its actions against Bangladesh’s liberation.
There is also reason to believe that the current regime is subtly engaging in backchannel negotiations with Islamist anti-liberation factions, including Jamaat-e-Islami. There are also questions about the National Citizens Party (NCP), of which Yunus is a self-proclaimed patron, and whether it and other parties could exploit religion for political gain.
Critics argue that this not only fosters political exclusivity but also represents a calculated effort to weaken secular-democratic entities, particularly by targeting pro-liberation ideological political parties while empowering regressive and rejected groups.
Bangladesh finds itself at a crucial turning point. Following the ousting of Sheikh Hasina in mid-2024, mob violence has also become a pervasive problem across every region of the country. Intense political unrest, vandalism, and acts of violence against supporters of the Bangladesh Awami League, in addition to attacks on minorities have cast a long shadow over the nation's democratic prospects.
The newly formed NCP has also emerged as a widely discussed political force that is not without controversy. Minority communities, ordinary citizens, civil servants, and journalists have reported a growing sense of fear and insecurity, pointing to political retribution and mob intimidation.
Numerous instances of mob-led intimidation, assaults, and destruction of public property have been linked to radicalized elements that appeared to be inspired by the NCP’s rhetoric. With a backdoor understanding with the current government, the NCP successfully led a ban on the activities of the Bangladesh Awami League last month.
The combined effect of the tendencies -- empowering Islamist factions, undermining liberation values, and banning or sidelining a prominent political party -- poses a threat to Bangladesh’s democratic trajectory.
An election that excludes the Awami League or any major political parties with significant public support will inevitably be regarded as biased, orchestrated, unjust, and illegitimate by both the citizens and the global community
Perhaps the most worrying aspect of the current political configuration is the systemic marginalization and sidelining of the Bangladesh Awami League, a party which, despite the actions that led to its demise last year, has historical significance and played a crucial role in the country’s independence.
An election that excludes the Awami League or any major political parties with significant public support or restricts their fair involvement by manipulating legal mechanisms or through indirect state interference will inevitably be regarded as biased, orchestrated, unjust, and illegitimate by both the citizens and the global community.
In Bangladesh, an inclusive election is more than a procedural formality -- it serves as a cornerstone for sustaining democracy, promoting social stability, and ensuring international credibility.
If key stakeholders are excluded, the electoral process risks alienating large portions of the populace, sowing discord, and jeopardizing the nation's future.
Ezaz Mamun is a freelance contributor from Australia.
