WASHINGTON: The United States and the United Kingdom have criticized the recent general elections in Bangladesh, stating that the polls were “not free” and did not adhere to democratic standards. The ruling Awami League secured a fourth consecutive term in power with almost 75% of the seats, but the main opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) boycotted the vote, and voter turnout remained low.
Both Western allies condemned the incidents of violence and alleged intimidation of opposition members in the months leading up to the election.
The US State Department, in a statement on Monday, expressed concern about the arrests of thousands of political opposition members and cited reports of vote irregularities. A spokesperson mentioned that the US shared the view with other observers that the elections were not free or fair, regretting that not all parties participated.
In London, the British government echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing that democratic elections depend on credible open and fair competition, respect for human rights, the rule of law, and due process. The Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office of Britain criticized the inconsistent adherence to these standards during the election period and condemned acts of intimidation and violence.
Opposition Leaders’ Arrest Ahead of Elections in Bangladesh
Tens of thousands of opposition leaders and activists were arrested in the months leading up to the election, and instances of political violence resulted in casualties. The Bangladesh government, led by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, secured a significant victory, winning 222 seats out of 298.
The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, expressed concern over the tactics employed in the lead-up to the election, stating that arrests and intimidation were not conducive to a genuinely inclusive democratic process. Türk urged the Bangladesh government to strengthen the foundations of an inclusive democracy and effectively investigate incidents of violence.
Critics argue that during her 15-year reign, Hasina has curtailed free speech, suppressed the opposition and civil society, and co-opted state institutions for her political agenda.
