By Muhammad Musa Khan
Columnist and Social Activist
Elections in democratic nations are festive, where voters flock to polling stations to vote for their preferred candidates. Contestation is spirited, yet peaceful. The victorious party forms the government, while the opposition concedes gracefully. However, in Bangladesh, the 2014, 2018, and 2024 elections painted a different picture. The ruling party Awami League repeatedly secured victories through blatant manipulation, ranging from uncontested elections, ballot stuffing, and the use of “dummy candidates” to strategic gerrymandering.
Astonishingly, the ruling party’s supporters refuse to acknowledge electoral fraud as a crime. If stealing a phone is a punishable offense, why isn’t the theft of votes—essentially the theft of an entire nation—equally criminal? This question looms large, sparking demands to classify electoral fraud as a criminal offense subject to prosecution.
The fall of autocrat H.M. Ershad in 1990, after a public uprising against election fraud, serves as a stark reminder. The Awami League’s repeated manipulation of elections has eroded public trust in the voting process, leading to widespread disillusionment. Many of today’s youth, now over 33 years old, have never experienced the opportunity to cast their votes in a credible election.
The authoritarian tendencies and corruption of Sheikh Hasina’s administration intensified public outrage, culminating in mass protests. Eventually, Hasina resigned and left the country amidst growing public pressure. In her absence, Nobel Laureate Professor Muhammad Yunus was appointed head of an interim government tasked with reforms and organizing future elections.
In a recent address, Yunus announced the formation of six reform commissions, with a special focus on electoral reforms. He suggested that national elections might be held in late 2025 or early 2026. While some argue that delaying elections for reforms risks political instability, others believe reforms are essential to honor the sacrifices of protestors who demanded structural change, not just a shift in leadership.
The interim government’s mandate extends until the formation of the next parliament and the appointment of a new prime minister. Analysts emphasize constitutional amendments to restore the caretaker government system and previous constituency boundaries to ensure fair elections. Notably, the High Court has partially annulled the controversial 15th Amendment, introduced during the Awami League’s tenure, which abolished the caretaker government system and gutted the integrity of the electoral process.
The Nexus Between Democracy and Development
Elections are the cornerstone of representative democracy, fostering accountability and bridging the gap between governance and public aspirations. However, the absence of credible elections leads to autocratic governance. Under the guise of “development,” the previous administration entrenched fascism, neglecting the public’s desire for fundamental rights, freedom of speech, and dignity.
Dr. Tofail Ahmed, head of the Local Government Reform Commission, recently remarked, “We were governed by thieves, criminals, drug addicts, and misogynists. We must transition to a democratic and ethical governance system through reforms and elections.” This sentiment is echoed by many who believe reforms are non-negotiable before any election.
Breaking Free from Autocracy
Bangladesh’s new Chief Election Commissioner, A.M.M. Nasir Uddin, has pledged to conduct free, fair, and credible elections. He has also called for accountability for electoral crimes committed during the past three elections, acknowledging that the Election Commission itself was complicit.
The stakes are high. Reforms must precede elections to prevent the resurgence of corruption, extortion, and political violence. Interim government officials have assured the public that their primary goal is to implement reforms and transfer power to an elected government promptly.
The ultimate aspiration is to create a Bangladesh free from corruption, extortion, and authoritarianism. A reformed electoral system will pave the way for a historic election, restoring public confidence and setting a benchmark for democracy.
Lessons from History
History has shown that autocrats, from Adolf Hitler to Muammar Gaddafi, often meet the same fate. Yet, as Karl Marx famously said, “The greatest lesson from history is that we learn nothing from it.” Incorporating lessons on the perils of autocracy into educational curriculums could prevent future leaders from treading the same path.
Professor Muhammad Yunus recently warned against conspiracies by defeated forces, who are leveraging their wealth and influence to undermine reforms. “If we remain united, no force can derail our mission,” Yunus assured.
The sacrifices of those who fought for democracy must not be in vain. By embracing reforms and holding credible elections, Bangladesh can establish a government that upholds public welfare and democracy. The nation’s future hinges on ensuring no government dares to revive autocracy.
Muhammad Musa Khan is a columnist and social activist.