Bangladesh’s vote for dignity | Between Us

Key Concepts

• July 2024 Uprising: A significant period of unrest and violence in Bangladesh, stemming from years of political repression.
• Shrinking Political Space: The gradual erosion of democratic freedoms and opposition participation.
• Enforced Disappearances & Extrajudicial Killings: Allegations of state-sponsored abductions and unlawful executions.
• Civic Moment: The renewed sense of citizen engagement and participation in the electoral process.
• Impunity: Exemption from punishment or freedom from judicial sanction.
• Estate Reforms Referendum: A proposed change to land ownership and usage, linked to the election.

The Uncertain Beginning: Bangladesh’s 2024 Election & Its Aftermath

This election in Bangladesh represents more than a simple change in government; it’s a test of whether years of public discontent, protest, and sacrifice can translate into genuine dignity, accountability, and equal citizenship for all. Unlike previous elections, this one feels less like a culmination and more like a precarious starting point, directly influenced by the events of the July 2024 uprising and a concurrent referendum on proposed estate reforms.

The Context of Uprising and Repression

The current election takes place in the wake of the July 2024 uprising, a period marked by severe state violence. A witness recounts experiencing “atrocities and crimes against humanity” firsthand, expressing a lasting trauma. This uprising wasn’t spontaneous; it was the result of a prolonged period of “shrinking political space,” consistently “disputed elections,” and credible “allegations of enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings.”

During the July 2024 unrest, reporting was exceptionally challenging. The journalist, Modu Ahmed Shujon, details managing news coverage amidst internet shutdowns, fragmented information, and intense emotional distress. He interviewed families who had suffered loss, including a teenager who lost an arm during protests but remained committed to fighting for a better Bangladesh. This illustrates a deep-seated resilience and willingness to endure further hardship for positive change.

Eroding Trust in Institutions

A particularly telling moment during the uprising involved protesters directing their anger not only at the government but also at the media. This “exposed how deeply trust in institutions had collapsed,” signifying a widespread disillusionment with established power structures. Previous elections under Sheikhina’s government, specifically the 2018 election, were characterized by intimidation and a lack of genuine participation. Polling centers were “heavily guarded by police, but with almost no voters inside.” Journalists faced obstruction, with one photojournalist being “forced to delete images showing the empty voting center.” Media attempts to portray a festive atmosphere were perceived as “choreographed” and disconnected from the reality on the ground.

A Shift Towards Participation – But Not Without Fear

This election differs from previous ones not because fear has vanished, but because there’s a noticeable return to civic participation. Despite ongoing concerns about violence, many voters view this election as a crucial “civic moment.” An auto driver in Dhaka, who hadn’t voted since 2008, exemplifies this shift, stating his decision to vote is about “reclaiming a right,” not party loyalty.

Voters are articulating a desire for fundamental improvements in their lives: an end to “discrimination and corruption,” the cessation of extortion by “political musclemen,” functional “public hospitals,” accessible and affordable healthcare, “safe food,” “equal access to education, jobs, and security,” and an end to “impunity” for state forces. This highlights a demand for basic rights and a functional, equitable society.

The Role of Social Media and Persistent Anxiety

The election and the estate reforms referendum are being actively discussed and debated online, particularly on platforms like TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube. “Short videos, chatter and mobile journalism” are shaping the campaign landscape. However, analysis of young voters’ online posts reveals not excitement, but “specticism, humor and anxiety.” While the election represents a potential turning point, fear remains prevalent, especially among “minorities and vulnerable communities,” primarily centered around the threat of “election related violence” rather than dissatisfaction with potential outcomes.

Unresolved Questions and a Precarious Future

The election and the referendum are a direct consequence of the political space created by the July 2024 uprising. However, the underlying issues that fueled the uprising remain unresolved. The election, while representing a step towards participation, has not addressed the “deeper questions” raised by the unrest. This suggests that the path forward for Bangladesh remains uncertain and potentially volatile.