Title: Bangladesh’s Pre-Election Crackdown: A Dark Shadow on Democracy

With the elections approaching in Bangladesh, there are some worrying signs of an impending opposition repression that will hurt democracy in the nation. Police along with Sheikh Hasina’s Awami League party are said to be leading campaigns of harassment, and intimidation against the rival parties of the country. Along with this, fabrication and false accusations are also said to be on the rise.

Many prisons in Bangladesh have been called overcrowded and unjust due to the sheer number of political prisoners held in them. Civil dissenters, who oppose government policies, are deemed criminals and are imprisoned. There are numerous calls from human rights bodies concerning the suppression of civil liberties and the use of authoritative force by the government.

Entire political parties and their followers have been actively abused by law enforcement through forced disappearances, outright violence, and unwarranted detainment. Extreme measures are being taken in order to curb any political opposition and dissenting beliefs within the country. Thus, Bangladesh’s status as a democratic nation is completely obliterated, and its people are not permitted to voice their opinion publicly.

The observation is more disturbing considering the forthcoming elections due to the fears of the electoral process being free and fair. The ruling party appears to be trying to consolidate power by doing away with any potential opposition which would make it winning the elections at all coste effortless.

The whole world needs to focus on the unfolding events in Bangladesh. Dissenting voices and authority abuse should never be part of any democratic system. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and her administration are in need of significant scrutiny regarding their actions alongside the demand for building in democracy and rule of law in Bangladesh is also phenomenal.

Every single practical person ought to oppose cruelty and injustice no matter what the reasons are. The citizens of Bangladesh are entitled to receive a government which guarantees their rights and democratic ideals. The time has come to show unity for the victims of political abuse in Bangladesh and call upon to those who control the political structures for an answer.

Sources:

“Bangladesh Opposition Faces Crackdown Prior to Elections” – The New York Times

“Human Rights Groups Condemn Repression of Opposition in Bangladesh” – The Guardian

“Suppression of Dissent in Bangladesh Awami League” – BBC News

“The Political Persecution of Bangladesh is Undermining Democracy” – Al Jazeera

“Violations of Human Rights in Bangladesh Must Be Addressed Urgently Report” – Reuters