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As the twelfth parliamentary elections in the country looms on the horizon, the political landscape is marred by a disturbing surge in violence, attacks on rival candidates, and blatant violations of the electoral code of conduct.
Despite warnings and show-cause notices issued by the Election Commission, the situation remains grim, with incidents of conflict escalating over the past couple of weeks.
Since the commencement of the election campaign on December 18th, the nation has witnessed an alarming escalation in conflicts, with approximately 100 incidents reported across constituencies. Tragically, this wave of violence has claimed four lives and left around 200 individuals injured.
The clashes primarily involve activists associated with ruling Awami League nominated candidates and independent candidates affiliated with the party. Disturbingly, supporters of independent candidates, often backed by boat candidates' supporters, have been responsible for numerous attacks during the campaign.
The Election Commission's warnings and show-cause notices, issued in response to these violations, appear to have had little impact on quelling the unrest. The number of reported violations of election code of conduct has surpassed 250, with more than half of the show-cause notices directed at Awami League's nominated candidates. Among them, 60 are current members of the parliament. Independent candidates and those from other national parties are also facing allegations, underscoring the widespread nature of the misconduct.
Critics argue that the Election Commission's response has been insufficient, with no visible legal actions taken against the violators of the electoral code. Despite the issuance of show-cause notices, there is a growing sense that the EC has not implemented strict measures to curb the ongoing conflicts and violence.
Among those served with show-cause notices is State Minister for Disaster Management Dr. Enamur Rahman, accused of assaulting supporters of an independent candidate in the Dhaka-19 constituency. The Election Inquiry Committee has recommended legal action against AKM Bahauddin Bahar, the Awami League nominated candidate for Cumilla-6 constituency.
Election Commissioner Anisur Rahman acknowledged the severity of the situation, stating that the EC is considering imposing stricter measures to address election-related conflicts and code of conduct violations. He indicated that candidacies may be canceled in certain instances.
However, Election Commissioner M. Alamgir clarified that no decisions have been made yet regarding candidacy cancellations but assured that tough action would be taken against candidates continuously breaching poll codes.
Election expert Badiul Alam Majumdar criticised the EC's actions, asserting that mere threats and fear would not ensure a fair election. He emphasised the need for disqualified candidates responsible for violence to be declared ineligible, calling for the cancellation of their candidacies, especially in constituencies where lives have been lost due to election-related violence.
Meanwhile, as the parliamentary election candidates embark on their campaigns, a noticeable lack of vigor characterises efforts to influence voters in many areas. Posters, banners, and rallies featuring only Awami League (AL) nominated candidates dominate the landscape, raising concerns about the diversity and inclusivity of the electoral process.
This is particularly evident in constituencies where strong independent candidates affiliated with the ruling party are contesting the polls. However, the absence of a robust opposition has led general voters to believe that electioneering will lack the usual fervor this time.
A firsthand assessment conducted by this correspondent in 15 constituencies of Dhaka city revealed that electioneering efforts were conspicuously concentrated in only five areas – Dhaka-5, Dhaka-8, Dhaka—10, Dhaka-14, and Dhaka-18.
Messenger/Disha
