Following a landslide victory securing more than two-thirds of parliamentary seats, the International Crisis Group on Friday said the BNP will need to announce a strong cabinet and move swiftly to fulfil its ambitious election pledges and meet public expectations.
“The BNP administration that is expected to take office in the coming days faces a number of daunting challenges, including boosting the economy, ensuring security and continuing the reform process,” said International Crisis Group Senior Consultant on Myanmar and Bangladesh Thomas Kean.
Given the importance of the election in restoring public confidence in the democratic process, he said any allegations of irregularities must be taken seriously and addressed transparently by the Election Commission in line with the law.
The International Crisis Group, an independent organisation working to prevent conflict and shape policies for a more peaceful world, said Bangladesh’s first “credible election” in 17 years was completed smoothly, with only isolated reports of violence or irregularities.
The vote marked an important step towards restoring genuine democracy in the country, he said.
The participating political parties, the interim government, the Election Commission and security agencies, as well as the people of Bangladesh, deserved credit for ensuring a safe and credible vote, he said.
The atmosphere was largely festive, with voters appearing optimistic that the election would bring lasting change.
“The turnout and strong support for a yes vote in the concurrent referendum on the July Charter a series of reforms negotiated by all participating parties over the last year – reflect the credibility of both the election and reform process in the eyes of most Bangladeshis,” said International Crisis Group Senior Consultant on Myanmar and Bangladesh Thomas Kean.
He said the country’s largest Islamist party, Jamaat-e-Islami, recorded its best-ever performance.
Together with some leaders of the student-led National Citizen Party who also secured parliamentary seats, it now has the numbers to form a strong opposition capable of holding the government accountable, he said.
