Bangladesh’s Tumultuous Democratic Journey: Election Violence, Political Shortsightedness, and Lessons from Around the World (1972–Present)

Bangladesh’s democratic evolution from its independence in 1971 to the present has been a turbulent journey marked by election-related violence, political shortsightedness, and recurring crises. This blog explores key domestic events and controversies, from early political instability and caretaker government debates to contemporary electoral challenges. Alongside, it examines global examples of electoral violence and peaceful democratic transitions to draw lessons that may guide Bangladesh toward political stability and credible elections.

Introduction

Democracy is often hailed as the rule of the people — peaceful, inclusive, and just. But the journey toward this ideal is rarely smooth. For Bangladesh, a country born through a bloody war of independence in 1971, democracy’s path has been strewn with political strife, electoral violence, and systemic challenges.

Elections—the very foundation of democracy—have often been arenas of violence and distrust rather than peaceful expression. This blog takes a comprehensive look at Bangladesh’s electoral and political evolution from 1972 to the present, tracing critical moments of crisis and reform. It also draws on global experiences to highlight how countries facing similar struggles found paths to stability.

Part 1: Early Turbulence — Bangladesh’s Political and Electoral Landscape (1972–1995)

The Post-Independence Hopes and Political Unrest

Bangladesh was born in 1971 after a brutal liberation war against Pakistan. The country’s first parliamentary elections in 1973, won decisively by Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s Awami League, raised hopes for democratic consolidation. But challenges soon emerged:

Political polarization grew with the rise of opposition groups.

Economic hardship and governance issues led to dissatisfaction.

In 1975, Sheikh Mujib introduced one-party rule (BAKSAL), abandoning multiparty democracy.

The assassination of Sheikh Mujib in August 1975 plunged the country into political chaos, ushering in a series of military coups.

Military Rule and Electoral Instability

From 1975 to 1990, Bangladesh was mostly under military or quasi-military rule:

Ziaur Rahman assumed power, founded BNP, and held elections with limited credibility.

After his assassination in 1981, Hussain Muhammad Ershad took control in a bloodless coup in 1982.

Ershad’s rule was characterized by suppression of dissent, rigged elections, and attempts to legitimize his regime.

Popular protests and mass movements in 1990 forced Ershad to resign, paving the way for democratic transition.

Fragile Democracy Returns

The 1991 elections restored parliamentary democracy, with BNP winning the government.

However, political rivalry intensified between BNP and Awami League, marked by frequent strikes, protests, and boycotts.

The political culture hardened, with election-related violence becoming a recurring feature.

Part 2: Caretaker Governments and Political Deadlocks (1996–2018)

The Birth of the Caretaker Government System

To quell election disputes, a constitutional amendment in 1996 introduced caretaker governments to oversee elections:

The first caretaker-administered election in 1996 was widely accepted as credible.

The system was designed to ensure neutrality and fairness during election periods.

Declining Trust and Growing Political Conflict

Over time, both major parties accused caretaker governments of bias.

The 2001 election brought BNP-Jamaat to power amid allegations of electoral violence and repression of minorities, especially Hindus.

The Election Commission came under pressure and was accused of lacking independence.

The 2006–2008 Crisis and Military-backed Interim Rule

Political tensions peaked in 2006 with disputes over caretaker neutrality.

The military intervened indirectly, supporting a non-partisan interim government that ruled until the end of 2008.

This period saw suppression of political leaders and curbs on civil liberties but also anti-corruption efforts.

The Controversial Elections of 2014 and 2018

The 2014 election was boycotted by BNP, resulting in a one-sided parliament and increased political polarization.

Violence and disruptions marred the election process.

The 2018 election, although contested by most parties, faced accusations of rigging, media restrictions, and political harassment.

Part 3: Election Violence and Political Crisis in Bangladesh (2019–Present)

Continued Challenges

The abolition of the caretaker system in 2011 removed a mechanism that many believed was essential for free and fair elections.

Political distrust deepened, with elections becoming flashpoints for unrest.

Opposition parties accuse the ruling party of suppressing dissent and manipulating electoral processes.

Part 4: Lessons from Around the World — Electoral Violence and Democratic Resilience

Bangladesh is not alone in grappling with election-related violence and political instability. Numerous countries have faced similar challenges and taken diverse paths to democratic stability.

Sri Lanka

Faced decades-long ethnic conflict and electoral violence.

The 2022 economic and political crisis led to peaceful mass protests forcing government change.

Efforts continue to build inclusive political institutions and foster reconciliation.

Kenya

Post-election violence in 2007–2008 shocked the nation.

Subsequently, Kenya adopted a new constitution, established independent election commissions, and institutionalized power-sharing.

International election observers became regular fixtures to ensure credibility.

Indonesia

Transitioned from Suharto’s authoritarian regime in 1998 to a vibrant democracy.

Political reforms curbed military influence and introduced direct presidential elections.

Electoral reforms, including independent commissions, have strengthened democratic processes.

South Africa

Post-apartheid transition involved Truth and Reconciliation Commissions to heal political divides.

The first multiracial elections in 1994 marked a peaceful democratic breakthrough.

The country continues to work on political inclusion and electoral integrity.

Ghana

Despite early coups, Ghana has evolved into one of Africa’s most stable democracies.

Transparent elections and peaceful power transfers have been key features.

Active civil society and media contribute to political accountability.

Georgia

Experienced election-related protests and political turmoil after independence from the Soviet Union.

Reforms and international mediation helped stabilize elections and political processes.

Ongoing challenges remain but democratic institutions have strengthened.

Part 5: What Can Bangladesh Learn?

Drawing on these experiences, Bangladesh’s path forward requires:

Independent and Empowered Election Commission: Ensuring impartial oversight with broad political acceptance.

Neutral Interim Governance: Revisiting caretaker systems or alternative frameworks suitable to Bangladesh’s context.

Political Dialogue and Trust-Building: Facilitating communication and compromise between major parties.

Civic Education and Media Freedom: Empowering citizens and ensuring transparent information.

Technology and Transparency: Leveraging technology like biometric voter ID and electronic voting with safeguards.

International Engagement: Inviting credible observers and support from international organizations.

Conclusion

Bangladesh’s democratic journey has been marked by resilience amidst recurring electoral violence and political shortsightedness. Recognizing and learning from both domestic failures and global successes can help pave the way for a more peaceful and credible electoral future. Democracy thrives not only in elections but in the respect for diversity, rule of law, and political maturity.

Reader’s Question

What reform or change do you believe is most critical to ensuring peaceful and credible elections in Bangladesh?