A free, fair, neutral, and acceptable election is the first precondition for democracy. The Awami League (AL) did not arrange a national election with participation from all to consolidate power. They destroyed the country’s democratic system. However, the interim government, which took charge through a student and public movement, has announced that an election will be held in February 2026.
The student and public uprising, known as the July Revolution of 2024, came against the one-party-like "Awamitantra" (Awami rule) that had been established over 15 years, during which local and national election processes were destroyed. After the autocratic Awami League and Sheikh Hasina's government fled during this movement, people are once again dreaming of electing their own representatives by exercising their right to vote.
The roadmap for the 13th national parliamentary election has been announced. The BNP has welcomed the Election Commission's (EC) announcement of the electoral roadmap, expressing hope that the election will be held in February. Other like-minded parties of the BNP have also supported the roadmap, calling it positive. However, a group has taken to the streets to disrupt the election. BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has said multiple times in recent days that a conspiracy is afoot regarding the election. There is no doubt that the fallen autocrat and their associates do not want a free and fair election to take place in this country. Until the election is held, they will weave many anti-election and anti-country conspiracies and plots. In this regard, the government and political parties must remain vigilant. They must be united on the issues of national interest and an inclusive, free, and fair election.
Observers believe that the political parties' disagreements over the election are encouraging the fallen autocrat. It is imperative for political parties to be election-oriented at this moment, which makes some parties' reluctance unfortunate. Negative statements like "the electoral environment is not right" and "there is no level playing field" are also being made. The responsibility for establishing an electoral environment and a level playing field does not fall on the government alone; it also lies with political parties and other stakeholders. A combined decision and action plan by the government and stakeholders can ensure the electoral environment and a level playing field. The government is determined to hold the election in February. Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus has expressed the government's commitment on various occasions. It has been stated that the next national election will be held in the first half of February 2026. This is a sincere promise from the interim government to the people of Bangladesh. The statement also mentioned that the interim government and the democracy-loving, patriotic people will firmly resist all conspiracies, obstacles, or attempts to delay or disrupt the election. The will of the people will triumph, and no evil force will be allowed to hinder our progress on the path to democracy.
Tarique Rahman, the acting chairman of the BNP, has stated that the people are the source of all the BNP's political power. The BNP does not and will not support anything other than the will and support of the people. Tarique Rahman presented the foundation upon which the BNP would run the country if it were to form the government two and a half years ago. The BNP is the political party that has ensured media freedom in our country. Building on the 21-point program of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman, Begum Khaleda Zia presented a vision for a new Bangladesh. Earlier, BNP standing committee member Salahuddin Ahmed said that the people are eager for an election and that no evil force can stop the election scheduled for February. The government and the BNP are united on the election issue. Other parties should also take a common stand instead of squabbling over the election. When the fallen autocrat and India are involved in anti-election conspiracies, it is the solemn duty of all political parties to be firm in their resolve to make the election possible at any cost. Meanwhile, according to the announced roadmap, there are only five months left until the national parliamentary election. The challenge for that election is the country's deteriorating law and order situation. Murders, robberies, looting, mob violence, and riots are constantly occurring. On top of that, organized mob terrorism has begun. Therefore, I say the government must work to improve the law and order situation at this moment. Finally, I say that Bangladesh is a country of harmony. For ages, followers of different opinions and paths have practiced their beliefs and ideals in peace. However, many incidents are currently occurring in the country that seem to be conspiracies to disrupt the election. All those who believe in democracy must be vigilant about this.
The writer is former parliament member
