Since 28 October 2023, violent protests and clashes between law enforcers and protesters along with continued crackdown on opposition leaders and activists in Bangladesh have raised serious questions about democracy, equal opportunities, free expression, and a level playing field for political parties contesting the January 2024 elections. Incidents of alleged abduction, arbitrary arrests, unjust treatment of political activists and killings during the exercise of assembly and association rights have been reported. During the previous elections in 2014 and 2018, the international community witnessed what appeared to be free and fair elections in the country. However, questions from political forces and election observer regarding election fraud, rigging, disfranchise, and restrictions on campaigning and free expression went unanswered. While we appreciate the government’s desire to conduct free and fair election on January 7, 2024, the claim lacks true intentions in both letter and spirit. Reports indicate that around 20,000 individuals are arrested, number of leaders and activists were allegedly disappeared and killed, hundreds are injured belonging to the opposition parties and family members are arrested in the absence of the targeted individuals. There are also accusations of sneak attacks by masked men and looting of houses of the opposition activists. We believe that these actions are contrary to democratic values, principles, and international human rights law. The current Prime Minister of Bangladesh states that the Election Commission (EC) is independent in its actions; therefore, the EC must demonstrate this independence. As an independent and neutral body, the EC should bridge the gap between the ruling and opposition parties, facilitating peaceful, free, fair, participatory and inclusive elections in January 2024. Ensuring the trust of voters in the country’s political system is crucial, and the Election Commission of Bangladesh can play a pivotal role in demonstrating that it is not favoring any particular party but ensuring a level playing field for all. As the South Asia Youth Network (SAYN), we urge the Election Commission and the government of Bangladesh to consider the following recommendations: 1. Take action to end the crackdown against political opposition and civil society, taking steps to ensure that the upcoming elections are conducted in a secure and peaceful environment. 2. Respect and promote political plurality and the expression of diverse views while upholding fundamental rights and freedoms, including the right to assembly, association, and expression. 3. Facilitate dialogue between political parties to foster a more inclusive political environment. 4. The Election Commission should address the use of state apparatus against opposition parties and civil society organizations. 5. Lastly, we emphasize the importance of the youth, constituting more than 34 percent of the total population. We urge all stakeholders and the international community to uphold fundamental freedoms and protect the future of the country. Yours’ Sincerely, Anthony Vinoth Convener South Asia Youth Network (SAYN) Email: [email protected]
