Bangladesh votes in about 10 days in the first election since Sheikh Hasina’s ouster in 2024. During my trip to Dhaka last week, the flavour of campaign, though not extravagant, was palpable. First-time voters were excited about exercising their franchise. And people in general hope better times will prevail.
With the Awami League barred from contesting, the BNP is fancying its chances. But its one-time ruling partner, Jamaat-e-Islami, has rebranded itself and seems confident. Barrister Mir Ahmed bin Quasem ‘Arman’, who’s the party candidate from Dhaka 14 constituency, describes his party as the right choice.
Jailed in a dark room for years under the Awami League rule, Arman believed he wouldn’t get out alive. One day, when he was dragged out of his cell, he believed he would be executed. Then came the news that student-led protests had ended Sheikh Hasina’s reign. Arman says he could have remained an activist, living an apolitical life. “But the real fight must also be fought from within—by becoming a lawmaker, by strengthening institutions, by ensuring checks and balances, an independent judiciary, a credible Election Commission, and a strong Anti-Corruption Commission.”
‘Bangladesh Yearns For Change’
Arman, a first-time candidate, will also vote for the first time. Complaints abound that elections weren’t free or fair during the earlier government.
Eight months in the field, he claims overwhelming support from women voters. They are desperate for change, he says.
He also claims the support of first-time voters. People who took to the streets to see the end of the Hasina era and now have the opportunity to exercise their democratic rights.
The working class as a whole feels deprived, according to him. “They are tired of muscle power, corruption and black money dominating politics.”
He describes politics-induced thuggery as a destructive power. “Goons not only suppress political rivals but also extort ordinary citizens, be it even vegetable vendors on the street. My party is offering an extortion-free, corruption-free administration.”
So why would people vote for his party and not the BNP?
‘BNP Has Failed The Restraint Test’
After the collapse of the Hasina govt in August 2024, an interim government led by Mohd Yunus took charge. But at the grassroots level, the BNP has effectively behaved like the ruling party for the past year and a half, claims Arman.
He accuses local BNP leaders of extortion, land grabbing, control of bus terminals and street markets. “The BNP has failed the restraint test. We could have done the same but we didn’t. That’s why people trust us. If we can restrain ourselves now, we can govern responsibly later.”
Tune in to this interview where Arman also talks about the Jamaat’s 1971 baggage and ties with India.
