Is Jamaat Questioning the Fairness of February 2026 Elections?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- The Jamaat-e-Islami party expresses doubts about the fairness of the upcoming elections.
- Violence and political unrest are escalating as election day approaches.
- Accusations of government bias and manipulation are prevalent among opposition parties.
Dhaka, Dec 1 (NationPress) With the political turmoil intensifying in Bangladesh as the February 2026 elections approach, the radical Islamist party Jamaat-e-Islami has raised concerns about the integrity of the election process, according to local news outlets.
Speaking at a rally of eight Islamist parties in Rajshahi district, Jamaat leader Mia Golam Porwar expressed that although all parties have committed to participating in the upcoming elections, "the uncertainty regarding the elections being free and fair still looms large."
In light of the recent Khulna court gate shootings, where two individuals were killed outside the metropolitan sessions judge court, Porwar cautioned, "In a nation where murders can happen right outside a court, assurances against vote tampering or violence at polling stations under such governance are non-existent," as reported by Bangladesh's prominent newspaper, The Daily Star.
Without specifying any particular political entity, Porwar accused one faction of engaging in violence, harassment, and vandalism during Jamaat's meetings and campaigns, including events aimed at women.
He criticized the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus for its inaction and stated that if authorities fail to stop these attacks, elections held under their supervision cannot be deemed fair.
Porwar claimed that a level playing field has not been established and alleged that government appointments have been manipulated to benefit a single party.
“Every party deserves an equal opportunity prior to the elections. This is essential,” he emphasized.
Meanwhile, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has accused a political faction of conspiring against both the BNP and the nation, as reported by The Business Standard.
During an event in Dhaka on Sunday, BNP Standing Committee member Mirza Abbas indirectly targeted Jamaat, asserting, "They are supported by local and international allies and are attempting to steer the people of this country towards an uncertain future. They are misleading the populace religiously and confusing our mothers and sisters.”
In the midst of escalating political strife, at least 25 individuals were injured last week following violent clashes between BNP and Jamaat supporters during electoral outreach in Pabna district, according to local reports.
The violence occurred in Char Gargari village within Sahapur Union, with both parties accusing each other of initiating the attack.
Bangladesh continues to grapple with increasing uncertainty and political unrest as the election date nears.
The factions that previously allied with Yunus to oust the democratically elected government led by Sheikh Hasina remain in conflict.