Dhaka, Jan 08, 2024--The aftermath of the 12th parliamentary elections has brought both triumph and turmoil as the ruling Awami League clinched a resounding victory, securing a formidable majority. The outcome positions Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina for a potential fourth consecutive term in office. However, the elections were marred by low voter turnout and an opposition boycott, casting a shadow over the legitimacy of the electoral process.
Leaders of major political parties and civil society members have voiced concerns, labeling the elections as 'one-sided.' They argue that the Sheikh Hasina government might face challenges in establishing legitimacy this time. Despite these domestic reservations, the global stage has witnessed a stream of congratulatory messages pouring in for Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina from influential nations.
World powers, including Russia, China, India, and others, have extended their congratulations to Sheikh Hasina for securing victory in the 12th parliamentary elections. Diplomatic representatives from these nations have conveyed their well-wishes, acknowledging the ruling Awami League's triumph. The international community's acknowledgment comes amidst internal skepticism regarding the fairness of the electoral process.
Notably, the United States and the European Union have yet to offer any official greetings to the Bangladeshi government in response to the election results. The absence of messages from these significant players on the global stage adds a layer of complexity to the unfolding scenario.
While Sheikh Hasina basks in international acclaim, the domestic discourse remains charged with skepticism and allegations of a skewed electoral landscape.
Critics, including leaders of major political parties and civil society members, have labeled the elections as 'one-sided,' questioning the legitimacy of the Sheikh Hasina government. The opposition's contention is that the elections were controlled to favor the ruling party, casting doubt on the acceptability of the government.
Jatiya Party, a major political entity in Bangladesh, participated in the elections but secured only 11 parliamentary seats. Jatiya Party chairman GM Quader criticized the polls, stating that they were not a 'genuine' election but a controlled one orchestrated by the government. Quader expressed concerns about the establishment of a one-party rule through sacrifice, emphasizing the lack of belief and acceptability for the current government.
Following the elections, BNP's Standing Committee member Abdul Moyeen Khan declared the polls as "lopsided" and claimed that people had boycotted the Sunday's elections. He went further to assert that the 12th parliamentary election was not genuine but rather a fake one, echoing the sentiments of many who question the credibility of the electoral process.
Independent election observer and civil society activist Badul Alam Majumder also criticized the elections, deeming them not a "proper election at all" due to significantly low turnout and alleged one-sidedness. Majumder emphasized the lack of legitimacy in what he considered one of the lowest turnouts witnessed in his lifetime.
Despite the controversy surrounding the elections, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has received congratulations from powerful nations, including Russia, China, and India. Russian Ambassador Alexander Mantytsky congratulated Hasina on her election victory during a meeting at the Gono Bhaban, expressing hope for enhanced cooperation between Russia and Bangladesh. Indian High Commissioner Pranay Verma conveyed congratulations on behalf of the Government of India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, expressing optimism for stronger bilateral partnership during Hasina's new term. Notably, the United States and the European Union have yet to extend greetings to the Bangladeshi government in the aftermath of the polls.
