Nahid to Reuters: Election this year may be difficult due to unrest
Bangladesh’s upcoming general election in 2025 may face challenges due to ongoing unrest, according to Nahid Islam, the head of the newly established Jatiya Nagorik Party (NCP). The interim government, led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, has struggled to fully restore law and order following the ousting of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina amid violent student protests in August.
Nahid to Reuters: Election this year may be difficult due to unrest
Nahid Islam, who previously served as an adviser in the interim government, recently resigned to form the NCP. He expressed skepticism about conducting elections under the current conditions, stating that short-term reforms have not sufficiently stabilized the policing system to ensure a safe election.
Islam emphasized the necessity of reaching a consensus on the ‘Proclamation of the July Revolution,’ a charter reflecting the people’s aspirations, before proceeding with elections. He suggested that if consensus is achieved within a month, an election date could be announced promptly; otherwise, it would be prudent to delay the elections.
The NCP, established just a week ago, has garnered support from affluent supporters. In preparation for the elections, it plans to set up new offices and initiate crowdfunding efforts.
The interim government, however, contends that reports of attacks on minorities are exaggerated.
In summary, the current political unrest in Bangladesh poses significant challenges to organizing the upcoming general election. Nahid Islam advocates for national consensus and substantial reforms before proceeding with the electoral process to ensure a stable and democratic transition.