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Bangladesh Braces for Flawed Election

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  Published in Politics and Government on Wednesday, February 11th 2026 at 19:04 GMT by THE WEEK
      Locales: BANGLADESH, INDIA

Dhaka, Bangladesh - February 12th, 2026 - Bangladesh is bracing for a pivotal election that has garnered international attention, not for its potential to showcase democratic strength, but for the very real possibility of a deeply flawed process. The concerns surrounding the election, scheduled for later this year, extend far beyond national borders, impacting regional stability and raising questions about the future of democracy in South Asia.

For over a decade, Sheikh Hasina's Awami League has governed Bangladesh, presiding over significant economic growth. However, this progress has been shadowed by a steady erosion of democratic norms. Critics accuse the ruling party of systematically suppressing dissent through increasingly restrictive laws, targeting opposition figures, and manipulating the electoral machinery. Reports of intimidation, arbitrary arrests, and restrictions on freedom of speech are commonplace, painting a grim picture of the pre-election environment.

The opposition landscape is severely fractured. Former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, a long-time rival of Hasina, is effectively sidelined due to health concerns and a politically motivated ban from contesting elections. Her son, Tarique Rahman, remains imprisoned on corruption charges widely viewed as politically motivated. This leadership vacuum has left the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), and the broader opposition, struggling to present a unified and credible challenge to the Awami League's dominance. While new opposition groups are emerging, they lack the established infrastructure and political capital to effectively compete.

Bangladesh's strategic importance cannot be overstated. Situated at the crossroads of South and Southeast Asia, it's a crucial player in regional trade and connectivity. Its burgeoning economy, fueled by the garment industry and remittances, makes it a significant economic power. A stable and democratic Bangladesh is vital for regional security and prosperity. Conversely, a descent into political chaos or authoritarianism would have far-reaching consequences, potentially exacerbating existing tensions and creating a breeding ground for extremism.

The Looming Questions:

Several critical questions hang over the upcoming election:

• The Military's Role: Historically, the Bangladeshi military has played a significant, and often disruptive, role in politics. While Hasina has maintained a relatively stable relationship with the armed forces during her tenure, concerns persist about potential intervention, particularly if the election results are contested or if widespread violence erupts. The military's stance will be crucial in determining the outcome and ensuring a semblance of order.

• International Scrutiny and Response: The United States, the European Union, and other Western nations have repeatedly expressed concerns about the deteriorating human rights situation and the lack of a level playing field for the opposition. While diplomatic pressure has been applied, the effectiveness of such measures remains uncertain. There is growing debate about whether stronger sanctions or other concrete actions are necessary to compel the government to ensure a fair election. India, a key regional player, has maintained a largely neutral stance, prioritizing stability and economic cooperation. This has drawn criticism from those who believe that India should be more vocal in advocating for democratic principles.

• The Specter of Violence: The pre-election period has already witnessed sporadic clashes between supporters of rival parties. The risk of escalating violence is very real, particularly if the opposition perceives the election as rigged or if the government responds harshly to any protests. A violent election could further destabilize the country and undermine its democratic institutions.

• The Fate of Civil Society and Media: Independent media outlets and civil society organizations are facing increasing pressure from the government. Journalists and activists critical of the ruling party have been subjected to harassment, intimidation, and legal prosecution. This suppression of dissent severely restricts the ability of citizens to hold the government accountable and participate meaningfully in the electoral process.

• The Digital Realm and Disinformation: The increasing use of social media and digital platforms presents both opportunities and challenges. While these tools can facilitate political engagement, they are also vulnerable to the spread of disinformation and propaganda. The government has been accused of using sophisticated methods to manipulate online narratives and suppress dissenting voices. Ensuring a fair and transparent digital environment is essential for protecting the integrity of the election.

The Bangladeshi election is more than just a domestic political contest; it is a test of the country's commitment to democratic values and the rule of law. The outcome will have profound implications for Bangladesh's future and for the broader region. A credible election, conducted in a free and fair manner, is essential for restoring public trust and fostering sustainable development. Failure to achieve this could push Bangladesh down a dangerous path towards authoritarianism and instability.