May 29, 2025 10:32 am
Full News

Pressing urgency for a prompt Inclusive National Election in Bangladesh 

GM Hirok
 
Bangladesh is going through a crucial juncture in its recent political history. The country, having undergone significant political upheavals and social challenges in recent months, faces an urgent need for a participatory national election. The post-August context demands a fair, transparent, and inclusive electoral process where the leading political parties including Awami League, Jatiya Party and BNP joining in the state concern that reflects the will of the people and strengthens the nation’s democratic foundations.
 
In the wake of political turmoil, including minority attacks, extrajudicial killings, protests, mob violence, sexual harassment, civil unrest and unbridled rise of fundamentalism, there is a profound need to rebuild trust in the electoral system very first. Historically, Bangladesh has experienced tensions around electoral legitimacy. In this crisis phase, a participatory election would ensure that the process is free from coercion, reflects the diverse political landscape, and gives every citizen the opportunity to vote without fear or favor.
 
The Constitution of 1972 is the only recognized and inalienable document of independent sovereign Bangladesh led by its father of the nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. This constitution, forged through the ultimate sacrifice of three million martyrs, is not a trivial matter to be dismissed or discarded at will. It has steadfastly guided the nation through every crisis, serving as a pillar of resilience and a testament to the enduring spirit of the people. Even, this constitution has enshrined the fundamental human rights of every people of Bangladesh, safeguarded the freedom of expression, and elevated the nation to a place of prominence on the global stage.
 
The transition into a more inclusive electoral system is not just about conducting elections but about ensuring that all existing major political parties (Awami League, BNP, Jatiya Party and others) are participating in the entire process from voter registration to vote counting aligns with democratic values. The legitimacy of any government, the respect for human rights, and the faith in democratic institutions can only be solidified if the electoral process is inclusive, accountable and truly representative.
 
Since, Bangladesh became a role model of advancement during the Awami League regime in the past few years, it has now become an important area of international politics. In this post-August society, where there are often deep divides between various political factions, a fair and participatory inclusive  election can serve as an essential mechanism for bridging those gaps. It offers a platform for all political parties and stakeholders to engage in constructive dialogue, negotiate differences, and come to terms with the democratic process.
 
The role of the Election Commission, The Judiciary, Civil Society, International Community and the Mass Media cannot be overstated in this context. These bodies must work together to create a system where elections are conducted in accordance with the principles of fairness, equality, and freedom. Only then will the results of the election be seen as a genuine reflection of the people’s will, enhancing the credibility of the government and bolstering democracy in Bangladesh.
 
Even an inclusive electoral process can amplify the voices of historically marginalized communities, including ethnic minorities, women, and rural populations, ensuring their participation in shaping the direction of the country. This inclusivity strengthens social cohesion and reduces the chances of political alienation or disenfranchisement.
 
In today’s world, the eyes of the international community are always upon national elections, especially in countries like emerging from political instability. A democratic and participatory election in Bangladesh would not only enhance the country’s international standing but also attract support from international organizations, foreign governments, and development partners.
 
This support can be in the form of diplomatic backing, foreign investment, and cooperation in various fields. A transparent electoral process would signal that Bangladesh is committed to democratic principles and is ready to fully engage with the international community as a stable and democratic nation.
 
The road to a democratic and participatory national election in Bangladesh will undoubtedly require careful planning, open dialogue, and cooperation among all political actors. It will require a commitment to upholding the rule of law, ensuring political freedom, and guaranteeing the protection of human rights for all citizens. 
 
Writer:
A graduate student at NYU, Columnist 
and Former President of Bangladesh Journalism Students Council (BJSC)

Related News
Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey Adaptation Set for July 2026 Release
Justice for Timbuktu: Jihadist Police Chief Jailed for Ten Years
Barca start the year with a predictable win
Tesla Denies Rumors of Searching for Elon Musk’s Replacement
Trump’s Tax Plan Faces Hurdle as GOP Hardliners Push for Deeper Medicaid Cuts
Biden and Harris Call for Unity and Resilience After Defeat in 2024 Election
Related Posts
New COVID Variant NB.1.8.1 Causes Rise in Global Cases: Reports
Bangladesh in Turmoil: Unrest Deepens Amid Leadership Crisis, Crackdowns, and Economic Woes
Gazan Children Queue for Food as Starvation Crisis Deepens
Ukrainian Drones Strike Russian Weapons Factories, Kyiv Claims
People With ADHD Face Higher Driving Risks — But There Are Ways To Stay Safe
NYC Subway Modernization and Congestion Pricing Victory Highlight Latest MTA Board Meeting
More News

Protests Outside Parliament in South Korea

An intense situation has emerged in South Korea surrounding the impeachment of President Yoon Suk Yeol. Thousands of citizens have gathered outside the country’s parliament, demanding the president’s removal from office. Meanwhile, the ruling party has announced its opposition to President Yoon’s impeachment. They disagree with the impeachment proposal brought forward by the opposition. When […]

Blogger Forhad Hossain Fahad Sentenced to Six Years Under Digital Security Act

Forhad Hossain Fahad, a blogger, human rights activist, and journalist, has been sentenced to six years in prison under the Digital Security Act (DSA). On Monday, Judge Nure Alam of the Dhaka Cyber Tribunal delivered the verdict in Fahad’s absence. He was convicted under Sections 25, 28, and 31 of the DSA 2018, receiving two […]

Trump Meets Syrian Interim Government President in Riyadh

U.S. President Donald Trump held a meeting with Ahmed al-Sharar, President of Syria’s Interim Government, on Wednesday morning (14 May) in Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia, during his ongoing Middle East tour. The meeting was reported by BBC. Prior to the meeting, the United States had lifted sanctions on Syria. President Trump stated that […]

Who Will Be the Next Chief Minister of Delhi?

The swearing-in ceremony for the next Chief Minister of India’s capital, Delhi, is likely to take place after Prime Minister Narendra Modi returns from his U.S. tour. On Sunday (February 9), BJP sources confirmed that Modi will be traveling to the United States this week. However, the BJP leadership has yet to announce the name […]

Trump’s Return: A Turning Point for Middle East Policies?

Donald Trump’s potential return to the White House raises both hope and concern across the Middle East, as his leadership could reshape U.S. foreign policy in one of the world’s most volatile regions. Known for his unorthodox, transactional approach to diplomacy and a preference for aligning with strongman leaders, a Trump presidency could lead to […]

President-elect Donald Trump Inherits a Strong Economy Amidst Divided Nation

Washington, D.C. – As President-elect Donald Trump prepares to take the oath of office for a second time, he portrays a nation in crisis, describing it as a “disaster” and a “laughing stock” on social media. However, by many traditional metrics, the America he inherits from President Joe Biden is in better shape than any […]

George Clooney Says He’s Done with Romantic Films

George Clooney is closing the chapter on romantic films. In an interview with 60 Minutes, the 63-year-old actor revealed that he will no longer star in romantic movies, acknowledging that he’s not looking to compete with younger leading men. Clooney’s last romantic-comedy appearance was in the 2022 film Ticket to Paradise, which also starred Julia […]

Two Astronauts Stranded for Nine Months Finally Leave Space Station

After being stranded for nine months, astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore have finally left the International Space Station (ISS) and are heading back to Earth. According to NASA, the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft departed from the ISS at around 11 AM (Bangladesh time) on Tuesday, March 18. NASA stated that Sunita and three other astronauts […]

Hostages Should Be Released, or the Gaza Ceasefire Should End: Trump

Hamas, the Palestinian militant group, has indefinitely suspended the release of hostages held in Gaza, citing violations of the ceasefire agreement. In response, U.S. President Donald Trump has made a strong statement on the issue. He said that all hostages must be released by noon on Saturday. If that does not happen, the ongoing ceasefire […]

Sectarian Clashes in Pakistan’s Kurram District Claim Over 130 Lives Despite Ceasefire Efforts

PESHAWAR – Sectarian violence in Pakistan’s north-western Kurram district has claimed over 130 lives despite a tentative ceasefire brokered last week, local officials confirmed. The district, bordering Afghanistan, has long been a flashpoint for Sunni-Shia tensions, with the latest clashes escalating into deadly confrontations over the past month. District administration official Wajid Hussain reported that […]