Lack of consensus may derail reform efforts

The interim government, led by Dr. Muhammad Yunus as the Chief Adviser, took office during a crisis moment. However, it received strong support from students, the general public, and major political parties. The expectations from this government were high, which made fulfilling them inherently challenging. Although some inefficiency and weakness were evident in the administration, the primary reason the interim government was unable to meet these expectations was the widespread corruption, mismanagement, and the tendency of the previous government to cripple key state institutions.

On the other hand, the government’s failure to address critical and concerning issues has become quite disappointing. With the release of reform reports, including recommendations for the constitution, election system, police, Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC), civil administration, and judiciary, the government now faces the new challenge of implementing these reforms in consensus with political parties. The unity of the student and public movements during the July-August uprisings had instilled hope for the reconstruction of Bangladesh. Especially in response to Sheikh Hasina’s misrule and the protests against the killings of students and the public, people across the country united under a single demand at the end of July—an unprecedented display of solidarity.

Despite the bloodthirsty threats, attacks, and indiscriminate shootings by various forces, the unwavering position of the students and public became an enduring symbol of any democratic struggle. However, after Sheikh Hasina’s ousting and departure from the country on August 5, the old political patterns began to reemerge. Politics of division and self-interest began to rise once again.

It is true that it will take time to break free from long-standing habits; however, it is disappointing to see the country continuing along the same path even after the loss of countless lives in the July-August movements. In order to rapidly move the country towards a democratic process, all parties must demonstrate wisdom and responsibility. The Chief Adviser of the interim government has expressed optimism in his statements regarding moving the country towards democracy through early elections. To expedite this process, the government has set up several reform commissions, and many of these commissions have already submitted their reform proposals, with others on their way. However, one thing is clear: the implementation of reforms and the arrangement of elections must be based on the consensus of political parties. Without this consensus, reforms will become a major challenge.

Another point is that reform is an ongoing process. It is constantly evolving, and new ways of thinking will emerge, along with the transformation of old ideas. If we are to rebuild the democratic bridge that collapsed during the Awami rule, reforms are absolutely necessary. For example, the Election System Reform Commission has stated that Bangladesh’s election system has largely collapsed over the last decade and a half. As a result, their proposals contain several new and crucial additions. They have emphasized that the government must implement these reforms based on the consensus of political parties. But the question remains: who are the major political forces in the country right now? Will these forces be able to reach a consensus? Since the 1990s, Bangladeshi politics has been primarily divided into two major factions—the BNP and the Awami League. However, after August 24, the Awami League has found itself facing a significant existential crisis as a political party.

Currently, the debate surrounding the participation of the Awami League in the upcoming elections suggests that the party’s involvement under its own banner is uncertain. The political consensus needed for the expected reforms is not being achieved, as the Awami League’s opinion is not being accommodated in the discussions. Consequently, the remaining political forces are divided into two broad groups—BNP and Jamaat. There is considerable doubt about how well the Jatiya Party, as a political entity, can perform. In addition, new political forces like the National Citizens' Committee and the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement seek to participate in the political process. However, as they have not yet officially emerged as political parties, they have not yet developed into a political force in the traditional sense. Furthermore, other political parties and alliances exist, but they are largely divided into the two aforementioned groups. Thus, the question arises: should reforms or elections come first? Both political parties and the general public are still uncertain. So far, the government has not declared a roadmap for the elections.

Moreover, it is unclear what exactly is meant by "reforms." Most political parties, including the BNP, are seeking a framework for the upcoming national elections. They argue that only a political government can address the country’s internal and external issues effectively. If elections do not take place, the country’s crisis and uncertainty will persist. There is no objection to reforms in principle, but after the necessary reforms, the government should move swiftly towards elections. Only an elected government can fulfill the people’s expectations. Therefore, the first priority must be to implement the necessary reforms, followed by approval of those reforms. The sooner the elections are held, the better it will be for the country.

The people of the country have been deprived of their voting rights in the last three parliamentary elections. The Electoral Reform Commission has stated that they have finalized several proposals to strengthen the country's electoral system. A fair election is a benchmark for the country's democratic progress. However, the real question remains: how much consensus can the political parties reach on the proposals finalized by other commissions? The reality is that it is not currently feasible to implement reforms while ignoring the opinions of the BNP or other major political parties. If the government believes it can bring all parties to the negotiation table to reach a consensus, it is unlikely to happen, as it has not occurred in the past and is unlikely in the future. If such a situation arises, it could lead to complications in implementing the election roadmap. The political uncertainty that would arise would be difficult for an unelected government to manage.

Additionally, foreign friends and development partners have publicly urged for a swift elected government in Bangladesh. Just like food, clothing, and other rights, the right to vote is a fundamental civil right. The right to vote ranks high among the rights of citizens. Therefore, the right to vote is a significant matter. The debate over elections versus reforms at this moment is not a sign of sound judgment. Declaring an electoral roadmap after completing the necessary reforms to conduct elections is the way to keep the country stable. Our country has witnessed various irregularities and instability in electoral history, such as vote rigging, violence, and propaganda. Political reforms are needed to address these issues. Furthermore, it is essential to enhance the independence and authority of the Election Commission and to encourage dialogue and understanding between political parties.

On the other hand, many argue that elections should be held quickly, as it is a constitutional obligation, and through elections, the people can elect their representatives. In such a situation, if elections are not held, the constitutional rights of the people may be undermined. Moreover, if a new government comes after the elections, it will be able to carry out reform processes more effectively. However, the key point is that coordination between both sides is essential. Elections must happen, but they should be organized in such a way that electoral reforms are ensured. Therefore, some crucial reforms, such as strengthening the Election Commission and creating an appropriate environment for conducting fair elections, cannot be postponed. However, the need for reforms and adherence to standards must be followed alongside the election process.

The national election is not just an election; it is a critical step in restoring the people's rights, which must be conducted through responsible actions by the government and the Election Commission. The people's uprising on August 5 marked the beginning of a new dawn, where a democratic and well-governed Bangladesh would be established. The time has now come to announce the election date and release the roadmap, which will lay the foundation for a strong and successful nation for future generations. This is not a delay but a necessary step to resolve the country's political crisis and fulfill the hopes and aspirations of the people. Although both reforms and elections are crucial, we must focus on the path that will maintain peace and order for the future of the country. At the same time, we must consider how effective an election will be without essential reforms.

Rayhan Ahmed Tapader: Researcher and Columnist.