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Bangladesh's Last Chance for Fair Polls: Expert Warns of Election Risks

Election expert Munira Khan expresses deep concern about whether the current law and order situation in Bangladesh will permit a free and fair election ahead of the February 12 polls. She emphasizes that this election represents a critical "last chance" for a credible process accepted by all. Khan notes that while the election commission and stakeholders are trying to ensure fairness, some elements are actively opposing a good election for their own reasons. Her warning comes following the ouster of Sheikh Hasina's government and the establishment of an interim administration led by Muhammad Yunus.

Key Points: Bangladesh Election Expert Munira Khan on Fair Poll Fears

  • Concern over law and order before polls
  • Stakeholders working for free election
  • Warning of serious consequences if flawed
  • Identifies actors opposing transparent process
  • Election scheduled for February 12
2 min read

"Wondering whether present law and order situation will allow fair election": Bangladesh Election expert Munira Khan

Election expert Munira Khan questions if law and order allow a fair Bangladesh election, calling it the "last chance" for a credible poll.

"We are all very hopeful and optimistic that elections must happen and in a free and fair manner. - Munira Khan"

Dhaka, January 15

Election expert Munira Khan said that the Bangladeshi people are concerned about the law and order situation ahead of the upcoming elections. She expressed optimism about the upcoming polls, saying they must be conducted in a free and fair manner.

Munira Khan told ANI, "I have been working for free, fair, and acceptable elections for everyone. I have dedicated 30 years to this work. This time, I feel there is a different atmosphere in Bangladesh. Bangladeshi people are waiting for an unflawed, credible election that is accepted by everyone. "

She added, "There are many challenges. We are not even one month away from the election, and the people of Bangladesh are wondering whether the law and order situation will allow a fair election to take place. We are all very hopeful and optimistic that elections must happen and in a free and fair manner."

She said all stakeholders are working to ensure the elections are free and fair.

"Election commission and all the stakeholders- political parties, civilians, civil society organisations are trying to make the elections free and fair"

Khan cautioned that there are elements opposed to a transparent electoral process, though their identities and motives remain unclear.

"Some people are not very happy about the situation. They do not want to hold a good election in this country, for their own reasons," Khan said.

Emphasising the stakes, Khan warned that failure to hold a free and fair election would have serious consequences.

"In Bangladesh, this is the last chance to have a good and fair election. If we don't have an election acceptable to everybody, we all will be very disappointed," she added.

Her remarks come just weeks before Bangladesh goes to the polls to elect a new government, following the July 2024 uprising that led to the ouster of Sheikh Hasina and the end of the Awami League regime.

Following her departure from the country, student bodies that led the uprising selected Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus as the Chief Adviser of the interim government, which will remain in place until a new government is elected. The country is scheduled to hold elections on February 12.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
It's concerning to hear an expert with 30 years of experience express such apprehension just weeks before the vote. The mention of "elements" opposed to a good election is vague but worrying. Transparency is key.
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Rohit P
"Last chance" she says. That's a heavy burden on the nation. We've seen how political instability can spill over borders. Hoping for the best for our Bangladeshi brothers and sisters. A strong democracy there is good for the entire subcontinent.
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Priya S
Respect to Munira Khan for her dedication. But her optimism feels a bit forced? She says people are "wondering" about law and order, which sounds like a major red flag. The interim government has a huge responsibility to create a safe environment for voters.
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Vikram M
Having Nobel Laureate Yunus as Chief Adviser is a positive sign internationally. But on the ground, the challenge is immense after the uprising. The whole region is hoping this election brings lasting stability, not more turmoil. Jai Hind.
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Nikhil C
The article mentions the ouster of Sheikh Hasina but doesn't detail the "July 2024 uprising". Context matters. Regardless, every nation's sovereignty and right to a fair poll must be respected. Let's hope for a peaceful election day on Feb 12.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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