Distinguished Professor Ali Riaz has been quoted in a report at Nikkei Asia on current Bangladeshi politics. Bangladesh is witnessing demonstrations against the government demanding its resignation in the wake of economic crisis and rising prices of essential commodities. Opposition is demanding that the next election, scheduled in January 2024, be held under a neutral government. Riaz said that under the present system, it is unlikely that a level electoral playing field can be created.
“The civil administration, law enforcing agencies, and the election commission have acted in unison in 2018,” Riaz said. “Unless a neutral government is in place, a repeat of 2018 cannot be prevented.”
Riaz said the only option for the opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) is to mount pressure on the government through street agitations. Riaz said much depends on whether the BNP can galvanize the masses in the coming days and whether other parties join its movement. Some like-minded political parties, including the Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami party and other small groups, have expressed support for the BNP’s demands.
“Many people from various social strata are outraged by the situation, especially due to the economic hardship,” Riaz said, adding the government is under pressure from the international community to hold a free election and open space for opposition.
