This is a pivotal moment in Bangladesh’s democratic history. On 12 February, the nation faces yet another general election. But the context of this election is entirely different. After 17 long years of authoritarian rule and controversial electoral experiences, a turning point began on 5 August 2024 through a movement led by the new generation. As a continuation of that change, the country came under a reform-oriented interim government led by Nobel Peace Prize laureate Dr. Muhammad Yunus, whose mandate was reform, justice, and the organisation of a free and fair election.
For nearly a year and a half, this government has carried out political reforms, strengthened accountability-based institutions, and completed several important judicial processes. Now, the ultimate test of this transitional journey is the election of 12 February. Campaigning has ended, and the country is now quiet. But beneath this silence lies a complex mix of suppressed fear, anxiety, and expectation across the nation. People are asking: Will their votes truly matter this time? Will the genuine will of the people be reflected?
Bangladesh’s past electoral history has repeatedly given us reason for concern. At times, democracy has been obstructed by questions over the neutrality of the Election Commission; at other times, by the role of the government, the conduct of law enforcement agencies, or by conspiracies and violence by political parties. Elections have turned into tools for capturing a ‘one-sided public mandate.’ As a result, the very foundation of democracy, the people’s trust, has been severely eroded.
Today, at this historic moment, all of us – state institutions, the Election Commission, political parties, civil society, and above all conscious citizens must fulfill a responsibility. Our duty is to break this cycle. 12 February is not merely a voting day; it will also be a test of our democratic maturity.
The Election Commission must act with the highest level of neutrality, transparency, and firmness. It must ensure that every vote is protected, counted accurately, and that the results truly reflect the will of the people.
The responsibility of the government and administration is to play a completely neutral and supportive role on election day, refraining from all forms of influence, interference, or intimidation, and ensuring a peaceful and festive electoral environment.
The responsibility of political parties is immense. Regardless of the outcome, they must respect democratic norms and the spirit of peaceful transition. Victory and defeat are part of democracy, but honoring the people’s verdict is a greater national duty.
The responsibility of the law enforcement agencies is to ensure the safety of all citizens and to uphold the rule of law without showing favouritism to any side.
And above all, the responsibility of us – the people – is to vote fearlessly and consciously. Our vote will be the instrument through which we shape our future.
The final and greatest achievement of this transitional period under the leadership of Dr. Yunus would be a free, fair, impartial, and peaceful election, followed by a peaceful transfer of power. This transfer will not merely be the handing over of the keys to official residences; it will be the restoration of the people’s trust in democracy and the beginning of a new era.
We hope that in just a few hours, with the sunrise on Thursday, a new sun of democracy will rise over Bangladesh. We expect this election to become a chapter in history where the people triumph and conspiracies are defeated. The country will move forward on the path of peace, stability, and prosperity.
A peaceful, transparent, and acceptable election, followed by a peaceful transfer of power, let this be our collective pledge. Let this be the firm resolve of Bangladesh for the days ahead.
Victory to democracy!
Victory to the people!
The writer is a political analyst
