Rising Unhealthy Competition and Election Violence

Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) has warned that unhealthy competition, inter-party conflict, and violence are steadily escalating in the country’s ongoing election process. While initial signs suggested a relatively healthy electoral contest, tensions among political parties and alliances have intensified, according to TIB Executive Director Iftikharuzzaman.

Speaking at a press conference on Sunday at TIB’s Dhaka office, Iftikharuzzaman unveiled the organisation’s report titled “Referendum and Pre-Election Situation: TIB Observations”. The report presents a comprehensive assessment of both parliamentary elections and the ongoing national referendum.

“The successful conduct of elections and the referendum largely depends on adherence to the law by all stakeholders, particularly political parties and candidates,” Iftikharuzzaman said. “If parties genuinely commit to fair practices, transparent and peaceful elections are entirely feasible.”

The press conference began with senior research officer Md. Mahfuzul Haque summarising the report’s key findings. Iftikharuzzaman subsequently discussed overall observations and responded to journalists’ queries.

TIB highlighted serious concerns over gender representation, noting that despite a recommendation for a minimum of 5% female candidates, no party has complied. “Jamaat-e-Islami has set a regrettable precedent by nominating zero women, which was unexpected. Other major parties have only 2.7% female candidates,” Iftikharuzzaman remarked, also pointing to deficiencies in the Communist Party of Bangladesh’s candidate selection.

He identified five key “political capital” factors shaping Bangladesh’s elections: money, religion, ethnicity, patriarchy, and majoritarianism. While the Election Commission and security agencies bear responsibility for ensuring voter safety, he emphasised that the primary duty lies with the political parties.

Iftikharuzzaman also criticised the current government for failing to curb corruption, noting missed opportunities for reform within the Anti-Corruption Commission and a lack of transparency from caretaker advisers regarding asset declarations.

He condemned the removal of journalists from the Bangladesh Times office the previous night, describing it as “an unacceptable act reminiscent of medieval suppression, sending an intimidating message to the press.”

TIB’s Seven Key Pre-Election Observations

Eleven Observations on the Referendum Campaign

The press conference was chaired by TIB Outreach and Communication Director Mohammad Touhidul Islam, with Executive Advisor Sumaiya Khair and Research Director Mohammad Badiuzzaman in attendance.

TIB’s report underscores the urgent need for political parties, government bodies, and the Election Commission to restore credibility, fairness, and safety in both parliamentary and referendum processes.