Bangladesh’s Islamist political party Jamaat-e-Islami has announced its firm opposition to holding national elections before Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina faces trial over alleged abuses of power and significant political reforms are introduced.
In a statement released on Saturday, senior Jamaat leaders accused the Awami League-led government of undermining democratic institutions, suppressing opposition voices, and manipulating electoral processes for over a decade. They demanded the formation of a neutral caretaker government to oversee the next general elections.
“There can be no credible election under the current regime. Sheikh Hasina must be held accountable for her crimes against the people and the destruction of democratic norms,” said Jamaat’s acting secretary general Maulana ATM Masum during a press conference in Dhaka.
The party also called for sweeping political and electoral reforms, including the dissolution of the current Election Commission, restoration of fundamental rights, release of political prisoners, and judicial action against what it termed “state-sponsored atrocities” committed during past crackdowns on dissent.
Jamaat-e-Islami, which remains banned from contesting elections due to its alleged involvement in war crimes during Bangladesh’s 1971 Liberation War, has recently regained visibility amid growing public dissatisfaction with the current political landscape. The party claims it is being unfairly targeted and silenced for ideological reasons.
The Awami League has rejected Jamaat’s demands, dismissing them as “anti-democratic” and “deeply regressive.” Government spokespersons reiterated that the next national polls would be conducted in accordance with the constitution, under the supervision of the current Election Commission.
Observers view Jamaat’s latest move as an attempt to reassert itself politically after years of marginalization, though its contentious legacy continues to polarize Bangladeshi society.
International human rights groups and election monitors have previously expressed concerns over political freedoms and electoral transparency in Bangladesh, urging all stakeholders to engage in dialogue to ensure a free and fair democratic process.
As the country moves closer to its next election cycle, the opposition’s growing demands for systemic reform are likely to further intensify political tensions in the region.
