Bangladesh is set to hold its 13th National Parliamentary Election on 12 February 2026. This election is not like many other previous elections due to a number of reasons. A significant portion will vote for the first time, who are young citizens. Simultaneously, it will be an election under an interim government, which is not the same as elections in military rule, caretaker or partisan governments. The combination of these factors makes the next election unique and decisive to the future of democracy in the country.
This is not just a ballot-casting exercise, but rather an entry into civic responsibility, especially for new voters. Their decision, together with millions of others, will define the direction of the country for the next five years. That is why the question of whom to vote for, and why, deserves serious and thoughtful discussion.
Bangladesh is a parliamentary democratic country. Under the Constitution, citizens do not elect a head of government directly rather they choose Members of Parliament (MP), and they all decide on who is to form the government. Most voters view an MP as a local benefactor, an agent of development or a strong-arm who can help people with personal issues. In reality, the constitutional role of an MP is much broader and far more important.
The main role of an MP is to represent the citizens of his/her constituency in the National Parliament. This involves participating in law making, debating policies, auditing the activities of the executive branch, approving budgets and making sure that the government is answerable to the citizens. The MPs are also expected to bring about issues of national concern, question the ministers and to provide assistance to parliamentary committees where thorough policy formulation is undertaken. Although MPs may play a role in highlighting local developmental requirements, this is not to imply that it will be their responsibility to provide roads, bridges and even personal favours. These duties mostly fall on the local government institutions and administrative entities.
However, in practice, many voters in Bangladesh do not evaluate candidates based on their constitutional role. The factors tend to drive voting behaviour and have little to do with the performance in the parliament. The large portion of the voters focus on the party symbol rather than personal excellence. Others believe in muscle power, where a candidate may be in the position of their political party, their religious affiliation or how they can be seen to bring about the visible infrastructural projects. Questions of integrity, competence and legislative capability are very likely to be overlooked by promises of swift growth, access to state resources, or personal gain.
This disjuncture between the role of an MP and the expectations of voters has serious consequences. When the election of MPs is characterised by power or loyalty over the ability to act as a legislator and represent people, the Parliament becomes weaker.
So, when choosing an MP, what should voters consider?
First, education level and intelligence are important. This does not imply that only the very well-educated elites should be allowed to be elected. It does mean that a candidate should have the ability to understand laws, policies, and national issues, and to engage meaningfully in parliamentary debates. If an MP is unable to interpret, read or question a piece of legislation he will therefore fail to represent the people effectively.
Second, integrity, ethics, and honesty are non-negotiable. Voters should ask a candidate whether they are corrupt or engaging in crime or abusing authority. An honest MP is more likely to prioritise public interest over personal gain and to resist pressure from vested groups.
Third, voters must look at whether the candidate would be able to serve the interests of people and not personal or party interests. Parliamentary politics requires party loyalty, but blind loyalty can be harmful. A responsible MP ought to be ready to raise a voice in cases when a party resolution contradicts the interests of the citizens or democracy.
Fourth, it is essential to be the efficient representative of the people in Parliament. These involve communication skills, courage, and a clear understanding of public concerns. When an MP is elected, he or she should not disappear. They are supposed to be available, be attentive to the constituents, and represent their interests on the national scale.
Fifth, the policy standings of a candidate and his election manifesto are worth noting. Voters must go beyond slogans and determine whether the promises are achievable, sustainable, and in line with the national interests like education, healthcare, employment, and justice and the environment.
Sixth, it is also important to take into account the internal culture of the political party of the candidate. The parties are more internally democratic, tolerant and democratic in their norms, the higher chances of having accountable representatives.
Last but not least, voters should be sensitive to local issues. Although MPs are not local administrators, they must be aware of the local problems experienced in a constituency and make efforts to see that such issues are incorporated in proper national policies and government channels.
These factors play a critical role to young and first-time voters. Opinions can easily be swayed by social media, rumours, emotional entreaty, and short-term gain. However, democracy cannot be sustained on the basis of emotion. A functional democracy depends on informed, rational, and conscious choices by its citizens.
The elected MPs in February 2026 will influence laws, budgets and policies for next five years. Their policies will impact the education systems, job markets, freedom of expression, economic stability and social justice. Voting then should not be regarded as something that makes one loyal, fearful, or excited. It is supposed to be a judgmental act.
Making a prudent decision might not have immediate payoffs. It might not be a guarantee for a road or a building tomorrow. However, it in the long-term fortifies institutions, safeguards rights and creates a democracy whereby power ultimately lies in the hands of the people. That is the responsibility every voter carries into the polling booth.
Writer is an MPhil Researcher at the Bangladesh University of Professionals (BUP).
