Disputed election results biggest challenge for interim govt: ICG

As the national parliamentary election draws closer, the tenure of the interim government led by Dr Muhammad Yunus is also nearing its end. International conflict analysis organisation International Crisis Group believes that managing any dispute over election results will be the biggest challenge for the interim government.

The Crisis Group expressed this concern in a press release sent to the media on Tuesday, February 3. The analysis noted that recent opinion polls show the BNP holding a narrow lead over Jamaat, although Jamaat is on track to perform better than at any time in the past.

Security has been identified as the most significant risk. Political violence has already been increasing during the election period. Since the announcement of the election schedule, at least 16 politicians have been killed. There have also been retaliatory attacks on candidates, Awami League supporters and minority communities.

The Crisis Group warned that disputes over election results could escalate into a political crisis, posing a serious test for the Yunus-led government. Even if the election is conducted peacefully, the next government will face intense pressure to implement reforms, including the July Charter. Failure to do so could further strengthen the perception that the promised political transformation was merely symbolic.