Can the 13th election restore public trust?

The 13th National Parliamentary Election, scheduled for Thursday, was expected to mark a democratic turning point. Emerging from the July-August 2024 mass uprising that ended authoritarian rule, the election-alongside a referendum on the July National Charter-symbolised hopes for renewal, accountability, and institutional reform. Instead, it is unfolding amid fear, scepticism, and a deep crisis of public trust.

The 2024 uprising was led largely by young people, many of whom will vote for the first time. Their mobilisation reshaped political expectations, generating interest and excitement but also disappointment. On the ground, voting is no longer viewed simply as a civic duty; for many, it has become an existential decision. The question is not only who will win, but whether participation itself is safe.

While official narratives highlight voter enthusiasm, everyday conversations tell a different story. Across Dhaka and beyond, many citizens  are quietly opting out-not as protest, but as risk management. Rickshaw puller Hashem said, "If we speak, it is dangerous. The vote is over, we are also finished." Tea seller Karimon echoed a sense of futility: "The government that we will form by voting will not look at us." Gendaria resident Sheikh Halim explained his reasoning: "We are poor people. If there is any damage-who will see it? It is better to stay at home."

These views reflect a broader sociological shift. Voting, once seen as political agency, is increasingly perceived as exposure.

Past experience reinforces this fear. Nazmul Haque recalled voting in 2014 and discovering that his ballot had already been cast. "Since then," he said, "I stopped going." Garment worker Asya asked, "What will happen if I vote?" Salon craftsman Amit Shil said the campaign atmosphere has unsettled him: "The way the candidates are talking, I feel scared before the vote." 

Housewife Ambia Begum added, "As a woman, I do not want to take this risk." Narinda resident Saifullah summed up the prevailing mood: "I hoped voters could cast ballots peacefully, but the current situation makes a fair, harmonious election seem unlikely."

Alongside fear, residents report systematic extortion and forced campaign donations by political operatives, particularly linked to BNP and Jamaat. "A lot of money is taken before voting, but no one even inquires after voting," said several voters, reinforcing perceptions that elections serve elite bargaining rather than public welfare. Old Dhaka resident Abdus Salam warned, "If the conflict surrounding the election increases, the country may become unstable again."

Political clashes, targeted killings, and aggressive street mobilisation indicate a drift away from programme-based politics toward coercive competition. Such developments threaten not only the credibility of the election, but also long-term democratic stability.

At the core of the problem lies a legitimacy deficit. The interim government has failed to guarantee security, dismantle extortion networks, or neutralise partisan control of public spaces. School teacher Delwar Hossain warned, "A rigged election will create a new crisis-fascism may return in a new form." From a constitutional perspective, these failures weaken the social contract. Although the overthrow of authoritarianism in August 2024 was historic, regime change has not yet translated into institutional reform.

As a result, many citizens now see staying home as safer than standing in line.

Despite widespread fear, cautious hope remains. An NGO worker noted that responsible participation could still bring change if institutions act impartially. Abdus Salam added that people expect tangible outcomes-solutions to economic hardship, job creation, and corruption. Bangladesh's citizens have repeatedly shown resilience and know how to fight for their rights. But this potential can only be realised if elections are genuinely free and fair.

In this context, empty polling centres may carry political meaning. Rather than apathy, they would signal a profound crisis of trust that procedural formalities alone cannot resolve.

The consequences of failure could be severe. Young entrepreneur and online businessman Russell Raihan warned, "July taught people how to assert their rights and overthrow oppression. If terrorism, extortion, rising prices, a weak and dependent foreign policy, and social insecurity continue, the next government will not be able to stay in power for more than two years."

The administration's role is therefore critical. Elections require honest, impartial officials guided by constitutional principles. Law enforcement must protect citizens rather than serve partisan interests. The Election Commission's transparency and accountability are central to restoring confidence, and any voting technology must be credible and secure. Political parties must curb violent rhetoric and engage in principled competition. Citizens, in turn, must overcome fear, verify information, and remain aware of their rights.

The journey from uprising to election was meant to lead toward democratic renewal. Whether the 13th election can restore public trust-or deepen uncertainty-will shape Bangladesh's political future for years to come.