The Turbulent Journey and Overlooked Opportunities of Electoral Democracy in Bangladesh

Abstract

This chapter delves into the evolution and challenges of electoral democracy in Bangladesh, emphasizing the pivotal role of the Election Commission (EC) and the complexities arising from constitutional mandates and political realities. Bangladesh's journey through various democratic processes exhibits a cycle of consolidation, backsliding, and resilience, heavily influenced by the constitutional framework and political dynamics. The discussion critically analyzes the EC's design and operational challenges, particularly under different governmental setups such as military, civilian, and caretaker governments. Despite strong constitutional backing, the EC's effectiveness has been curtailed by political capture and inadequate institutional support, highlighted by the controversial abrogation of the caretaker government system by the Appellate Division of the Supreme Court. The chapter concludes by contemplating future pathways for strengthening electoral democracy in Bangladesh through robust constitutional mechanisms and genuine political reforms, aiming for a resilient democratic framework that can withstand the tests of political and institutional pressures.