While the formal process of democracy will once again be completed, a deeper concern continues to trouble many observers of the country’s political landscape. It has become increasingly clear that the Bangladesh Parliament is gradually transforming into a club dominated by businesspersons rather than a forum of public representatives rooted in political ideology, grassroots movements, and citizen interests.
Although it is difficult to determine the exact percentage, it is widely acknowledged that more about 59 percent of Members of Parliament now come from established business house. This trend is not new, but its scale and impact have grown significantly over the years. Politics, which should ideally be driven by public service and accountability, is increasingly shaped by financial power, commercial interests, and profit-driven calculations.
This concern was once openly articulated by former president Abdul Hamid, who warned against the rising number of businesspersons in Parliament and their growing dominance in political decision-making. His remarks highlighted a critical issue: when politics becomes overly commercialised, genuine political actors those rooted in ideology, activism, and public service are sidelined.
Traditional politicians, including grassroots leaders, labour organisers, student activists, and community representatives, are gradually losing space. Many are discouraged by the rising costs of elections, which have turned political contests into high-risk financial investments. For businesspersons, elections are often viewed as an extension of their commercial ventures – an investment that promises future returns through influence, access, and favourable policies.
As a result, politics is becoming depoliticised for the masses. When people see that political success depends more on money than ideas or integrity, they lose faith in democratic participation. Citizens begin to believe that politics no longer represents their struggles, but rather serves elite economic interests. This erosion of trust is dangerous for any democracy.
Across discussions in civil society, media, and academia, one sentiment is repeatedly voiced: people no longer believe in politicians. They are often perceived as self-interested actors who prioritise personal or corporate gain over public welfare. Elections, in this environment, appear less like civic exercises and more like transactions.
Business-driven politicians often influence laws, regulations, and budgets in ways that protect or expand their commercial interests. This creates conflicts of interest, weakens regulatory frameworks, and undermines fair competition. When policies favour elites, wealth inequality deepens. Small farmers, workers, informal labourers, and marginalised communities are left without meaningful representation or protection.
The overlap between business and political power increases opportunities for corruption, rent-seeking, and misuse of public resources. Parliament risks losing its role as a deliberative institution. Debate, dissent, and accountability are often replaced by consensus built around shared economic interests. When citizens believe elections are bought rather than earned, voter apathy rises, political engagement declines, and democratic legitimacy suffers.
This phenomenon is not unique to Bangladesh, but in a developing democracy with fragile institutions, its effects are particularly severe.
At its core, democracy depends on the active participation of ordinary people. Mass involvement ensures that politics reflects real social needs; education, healthcare, employment, justice, and dignity. When people from diverse backgrounds enter politics, decision-making becomes more inclusive and responsive.
Mass-based politics also serves as a check on concentrated power. Grassroots movements, civic activism, and ideological parties play a vital role in holding leaders accountable. Without them, democracy risks becoming an elite project detached from everyday realities.
History shows that major social and political transformations from labour rights to independence movements, were driven not by wealthy elites alone, but by organised, politically conscious citizens.
This growing imbalance between money and representation cannot be ignored. It must be addressed through deliberate policy and institutional reforms, including clear limits on election spending, transparency in funding sources, and strict enforcement mechanisms can reduce the influence of money in politics. Strong legal frameworks should prevent elected officials from using public office for private business gain. Parties must invest in ideological training, leadership development, and grassroots engagement rather than relying solely on wealthy candidates. Public funding mechanisms, equal media access, and civic education can help level the playing field for non-elite candidates. An informed electorate is essential. Citizens must understand their political power and demand accountability beyond election cycles.
Politics should not be a marketplace where influence is bought and sold. It should be a platform for collective decision-making, social justice, and national development. While business experience can contribute valuable skills, politics must never be reduced to a business venture.
For Bangladesh, and any nation, to progress democratically, politics must reconnect with the people. Restoring trust requires structural reform, ethical leadership, and renewed respect for mass participation. Without this, the danger of depoliticisation will grow, weakening democracy from within.
The formation of a new government offers not only continuity, but also an opportunity for reflection. The critical question remains: will Parliament serve the people, or will it continue to serve power and profit?
The views expressed in the article are solely of the author
The writer is a media freedom activist
