Prior to the 13th parliamentary election that takes place on Thursday, Bangladesh saw quite an intense season of political campaigns heading into the deadline of February 10 morning. Both the candidates from major political parties and the independents held rallies, made promises, and sought voter support. Political parties offered a broad menu of pledges, including sweeping job creation targets, cash support for families or interest-free loans for the jobless, and an end to corruption, extortion, and discrimination. However, there was hardly any clear roadmap on how those pledges would be fulfilled, what processes they would be carried out through, or how institutional capacity would be strengthened to deliver them. Instead, throughout the campaign period, political speeches and posturing frequently delved into the kind of toxicity that we thought we had left behind.
The July uprising briefly raised hopes that politics in Bangladesh might take a new direction—one focused on restraint, accountability, and shared national interests. Yet, instead of a fresh political culture, citizens increasingly witnessed a return to old habits. This was visible not only among traditional parties but also among some new political forces. Their campaigns often centred around revisiting or rather reigniting old, unresolved historical or political issues. Sharp accusations and recycled narratives followed. This kind of environment leaves little room for serious discussion about the future and keeps the political environment deeply divided.
This failure is particularly alarming at a time when the country faces a long list of serious social and economic challenges. Poverty, unemployment and underemployment remain high, especially among young people. Inflation has strained household budgets, while investment and economic growth has slowed. Inequality is widening, education standards are declining, healthcare services remain uneven and underfunded, and environmental damage is becoming increasingly visible. Yet, much of the campaign energy has been spent attacking opponents rather than presenting credible and practical plans to address both short-term and long-term needs of the country.
Experts have linked the use of abusive language to rising tensions on the ground. According to an estimate by Ain o Salish Kendra (ASK) based on media reports, some 58 incidents of political violence were recorded between February 1 and 10, leaving two people dead and 489 others injured. During this time, at least 47 journalists faced attacks around the country. By comparison, 49 incidents were reported during the last 10 days of January (January 21-31), in which four people were killed and 414 others were injured. Meanwhile, 16 journalists were attacked throughout January, the ASK report added.
This pattern is not new. Since independence, Bangladeshi politics has been shaped by a narrow set of familiar narratives. Election after election, parties fall back on the same strategies of mobilising fear, blaming rivals, and stirring emotions. The country has never truly developed a strong tradition of issue-based politics, where ideas, evidence, and long-term planning take centre stage. Issue-based politics remains weak because it is inconvenient for those who thrive on chaos and confusion. Serious policy discussion demands accountability, and accountability threatens entrenched interests.
At the heart of this disappointment lies a leadership crisis. Bangladesh has never lacked “netas,” but it has consistently lacked genuine “leaders.” A true leader works for the national interest, has a clear long-term vision, listens to different views, and acts with integrity. Leadership, at its core, is the ability to guide people towards a shared objective, unite differing opinions around national interests, and act with clarity, courage, and responsibility. A true leader inspires trust, communicates honestly, and works to build institutions that serve collective interests and long-term social welfare.
By contrast, a typical neta is often perceived as someone focused mainly on holding power, winning elections, and securing personal advantage. Their speeches are filled with insults, and their campaigns driven by labels such as “pro-Indian,” “pro-Pakistan,” “anti-Islam,” “anti-Bangladesh,” “anti-liberation,” or “foreign-backed.” These accusations are thrown around carelessly, with little concern for truth or consequence. Ordinary citizens are tired of this politics of suspicion and division.
Political statements are a normal part of politics. However, words must be chosen carefully especially when dealing with sensitive issues rooted in history, identity, and tradition. In politics, a statement can act like ammunition. What is said, how it is said, and where it is said all may carry serious consequences. While political parties may believe that labelling opponents helps win votes, they often fail to realise that such language not only divides citizens but also sends damaging signals to the world, undermining Bangladesh’s credibility as a responsible democratic state.
Such divisive politics has long fractured our society into camps defined by loyalty rather than principles. It’s time our politicians understood that politics is not only about gaining power or remaining in power by any means. It is also about responsibility, restraint, and respect for the people. And for Bangladesh to move forward, it does not need more self-serving neta skilled in shouting matches and blame games. What it needs are leaders who are willing to practise ethical politics, adopt a committed and principled approach, challenge harmful traditions, eliminate corrupt practices, and use responsible language. This election, can we choose leaders who can unite the nation and work sincerely for the welfare and dignity of all people in the country? Perhaps the more pertinent question is: can we afford not to?
Abu Afsarul Haider is an entrepreneur. He can be reached at [email protected].
Views expressed in this article are the author's own.
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