A peaceful start to electioneering

The peaceful beginning of the campaign for the 13th parliamentary election is an encouraging sign, particularly given our troubled electoral history. The first two days of electioneering passed without major violence or disorder, with political parties and candidates launching rallies, door-to-door outreach, and digital campaigns. After years of one-sided polls and widespread public disillusionment, this election represents the first truly competitive contest in more than a decade.

Candidates from major parties—BNP, Jamaat-e-Islami, NCP, Islami Andolan, Ganotantrik Juktafront, and others—visited voters, held rallies, and announced their platforms. The Election Commission has urged strict adherence to the electoral code of conduct. Yet, reports from the very first day of campaigning point to multiple breaches of the rules. Despite a landmark legal reform banning all types of posters, they have already appeared in some areas. Similarly, while only biodegradable materials are permitted for banners and festoons, non-degradable materials such as plastic and polythene are being used openly in the capital and elsewhere. Loudspeaker campaigning, though regulated by strict time limits, has also raised questions about compliance. Individually, these may appear to be minor breaches, but collectively they signal a lack of discipline—and, more importantly, a lack of deterrence.

Muscle power and money have long played a prominent role in our politics. Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) reports that this election will feature the highest-ever number of candidates with assets exceeding Tk 1 crore, including 27 aspirants declaring movable and immovable assets of Tk 100 crore or more. The EC must rigorously examine affidavit disclosures, verify any inconsistencies, and coordinate with oversight bodies to ensure that wealth and influence do not undermine the democratic process. 

As political competition is intense, accusations and counter-accusations are already emerging. As election expert Badiul Alam Majumdar has rightly noted, some level of tension is normal, but it must never spill over into violence or systematic unfairness. Preventing that outcome requires an EC willing to act decisively. Responsibility, however, does not rest with the EC alone; political parties must also refrain from unfair practices, respect environmental and legal rules for campaigning, and focus on engaging voters. The administration and law enforcement agencies, too, must perform their duties impartially and professionally. 

This election offers a chance to restore credibility to the country’s electoral system. The EC must act with courage and impartiality to ensure that. Political parties must compete honourably, and candidates must respect both the letter and the spirit of the law. Only by doing so can we ensure that February 12 delivers a truly free, fair and credible election.