As the nation awaits the final outcome of this historic election to confirm which political party or coalition will emerge victorious, we must reflect on the overall election environment. By and large, save for a few unfortunate incidents, the 13th parliamentary election has been conducted relatively peacefully, with a decent turnout in most centres.
The overall atmosphere was celebratory, with people spontaneously coming out to cast their votes. Women and men of all ages were seen at the polling centres. The elderly, people with disabilities, and young voters—everyone—participated enthusiastically. This indicates a hard-earned, long-overdue public trust in the election process and demonstrates people's excitement in exercising their vote, something they were deprived of in the last three elections.
In fact, many of the concerns that had surrounded the election were adequately allayed. There were apprehensions that there would be many incidents of violence leading to panic among the people, lowering the voter turnout. In fact, hours before voting began, various political actors, seemingly aligned with the Awami League, Jamaat-e-Islami, and BNP, used social media platforms to cast doubt on the legitimacy of the election, falsely or unconvincingly accuse rival parties of foul play, and discourage people from voting. There were a few isolated incidents of attempts at creating panic and ballot snatching, but these were very few and promptly prevented. In the end, voters refused to be deterred by false propaganda and were determined to exercise their democratic right.
With around 12.77 crore voters, almost half of them women, and 2,028 candidates and 50 political parties joining the race, this was an election with very high stakes. Consequently, a vast number of security personnel were employed to make sure that it took place smoothly. The number of polling centres were 42,779, with 21,506 considered “risky” due to close competition between the two major parties. About eight lakh election officials were engaged, and nearly 10 lakh security personnel were deployed to maintain tight security, including over one lakh army personnel and more than 1.86 lakh police officials, along with thousands from the air force, navy, BGB, coast guard, Ansar, Rab, and village police. Considering the fact that this election also included a referendum, the voting process was notably smooth and efficient.
The government and the Election Commission must be commended for efficiently managing the formidable logistics of organising this election while ensuring it was conducted peacefully and fairly. Despite the large number of polling centres and voting booths, the presence and sincerity of helpful volunteers and polling agents ensured the overall discipline and avoided long queues and crowding. The presence of police and army personnel gave voters confidence, enabling them to cast their votes freely. The prompt action by the army the night before the election, during which they arrested a number of individuals for attempts to tamper with the process, played a major role in deterring potential mischief-makers and alleviate any fears the voters may have had. The consistent role of the army chief in maintaining a position of advocacy for a free and fair election and helping to deliver one also deserves praise.
Finally, much of the credit for such a peaceful election goes to Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus who, despite having fallen short of some crucial public expectations during his tenure, has commendably overseen the delivery of a festive, free and fair election that will set the standard for future polls. This will undoubtedly be an important accomplishment of his legacy.
At the time of writing this editorial, vote counting has not concluded, and it is therefore not possible to comment definitively on the results. We congratulate whoever emerges victorious and urge the losing side to accept the verdict of the people with grace and dignity. Political parties, in general, also deserve appreciation for their relative restraint and cooperation during the election.
Going forward, we look forward to a parliament with an honest, pro-people ruling party and a strong, conscientious opposition that keeps the government accountable. We also expect the next government to be committed to upholding the basic rights and freedoms, especially freedom of the media. May this election usher in the new Bangladesh we have long dreamed of: a nation with a healthy, thriving democracy where all citizens will enjoy justice, equality, accountability, and peace.
