By Professor Dr. A.K. Abdul Momen The landslide victory of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) in the 13th parliamentary election raises serious questions about the legitimacy and future stability of the countryโs democratic process.
Some observers note the symbolism of the โ13thโ Parliament, often associated in many cultures with misfortune, betrayal, bad omens, ill luck, or instability. While such symbolism is largely superstitious, the circumstances surrounding this election, not numerology, have fueled concerns about whether the outcome signals political uncertainty ahead.
Credibility Of Foreign Observers
The election took place under highly unusual conditions. Such has never ever happened in Bangladesh before. The countryโs largest political party, which spearheaded its independence and contributed immensely to its economic success, the Awami League (AL), was barred from participating. As a result, a substantial portion of the electorate, almost 60%, was effectively disenfranchised.
With the main opposition excluded, polling stations remained largely quiet. Reports from various constituencies suggested low voter turnout, raising doubts about whether the results reflected the popular will. Although voter turnout was low, the Dr. Yunus government jerked up the numbers to a comfortable level through fraudulent means, deceits and deception.
Serious allegations of irregularities also emerged.
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Critics claimed that ballot stuffing occurred prior to the official opening of polls and that voting figures in some constituencies appeared statistically implausible. For example, in one constituency, in the Rajshahi-4 constituency, although the total voters were 319,909, the number of ballots cast was 7,81,253, more than double the number of total voters, or over 244%โthat means votes cast exceeded the number of registered voters by a wide marginโan anomaly that, if accurate, would indicate severe procedural failures.
Not only that. Official turnout figures also drew scrutiny. Rapid increases in reported participation within short time intervals led analysts to question whether such voting rates were operationally and technically feasible under normal conditions. As per the Election Commission, 12 people voted per minute in each centre, which is technically impossible. It normally takes 3 minutes for each voter to cast a vote from beginning to end.
Exclusion Of Major Political Parties
The banning of a major political party from a national election would be considered unacceptable in most established democracies. In the United States, for instance, an election excluding either the Democratic or the Republican Party would not be regarded as free or fair. Similarly, in the United Kingdom, an election without the participation of a principal party, the Labour or Conservative Party, would lack democratic credibility.
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The exclusion of the Awami League, therefore, raises fundamental concerns about pluralism, representation, and legitimacy in Bangladeshโs electoral system under the Yunus government. In this sense, it is the worst election in the history of Bangladesh, as it negates the basic principles of democracy, representation, fairness, and legitimacy.
Peaceful But Not Credible
Although the election was largely free of violence, peaceful conduct alone does not ensure democratic integrity. Elections must also be competitive, inclusive, and transparent. Without meaningful participation from all major stakeholders, the outcome risks being perceived as neither credible nor representative. Such a lopsided victory may fail to deliver the political stability or economic confidence that Bangladesh urgently needs.
Mixed Reactions Among Awami League Supporters
Despite grievances, some supporters of the Awami League reportedly expressed cautious optimism about the outcome for two reasons.
First, the departure of the interim administration led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus was viewed by critics as an opportunity to reset governance. Second, concerns that extremist groups like Jamaat-e-Islami and NCP might gain power did not materialise, easing fears among secular and minority communities.
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Many, therefore, welcomed the leadership of BNP figure Tarique Rahman, hoping he would pursue reconciliation and institutional restoration.
Urgent Need For National Unity And Rule of Law
Bangladesh today faces deep political polarisation. Rebuilding trust among citizens, strengthening the rule of law, and ensuring judicial independence must be top priorities for the new government. The Yunus government abused the judiciary so much so that it virtually became a vehicle of corruption and extortion.
Observers hope that the incoming leadership will curb political violence, end extrajudicial practices, protect minority rights, and restore democratic norms. Like Nazi Hitler, who persuaded people to annihilate Jews, the Yunus administration systematically tried to annihilate 3 groups of people, namely (1) the AL supporters, (2) the believers of the ideals of 1971 independence, and (3) the Hindu minority. The new government must stop such heinous crimes and must withdraw bans from all political parties, plus release all political prisoners and journalists, and drop all politically motivated fraudulent cases. Without these steps, divisions could deepen, undermining long-term stability. The national unity depends on the withdrawal of bans from political parties and the withdrawal of politically motivated cases.
Challenges Ahead
The new administration inherits significant economic, political, and diplomatic challenges. Governing effectively will require broad national support and unity, including engagement with opposition forces, particularly the Awami League.
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The Awami League remains one of Bangladeshโs largest and most historically significant political parties. Sustainable governance may depend on inclusive dialogue rather than exclusion. Pluralism in governance is not a luxury, but rather essential for good governance and sustainability.
If the government fails to address legitimacy concerns or economic pressures, political uncertainty could intensify. Conversely, a commitment to reconciliation and institutional reform could restore confidence at home and abroad.
The BNPโs overwhelming victory may appear decisive, but the circumstances surrounding the election cast a long shadow over its mandate. Democratic stability depends not only on electoral outcomes but also on the fairness, inclusiveness, and credibility of the process itself.
Bangladesh now stands at a crossroads. Whether this moment becomes a turning point toward stability or a prelude to further turmoil or misery will depend on the choices made in the months ahead.
Prof. Dr. A.K. Abdul Momen: Former Foreign Minister of Bangladesh (2019-24) and Former Permanent Representative of Bangladesh to the UN (2009-15).
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