The thirteenth national parliamentary election in Bangladesh is rapidly approaching, bringing with it heightened anticipation and concern among voters nationwide. While excitement about exercising the right to vote is palpable, fears surrounding election-related violence and security lapses have also intensified.
In the 53 days leading up to the election, a total of 274 violent incidents have been reported across the country, potentially undermining the transparency of the electoral process and discouraging voter participation. Many citizens have been deprived of voting rights for years, having missed the previous three national elections. This pent-up enthusiasm is now tempered by anxiety: without adequate security measures, ordinary citizens may hesitate to visit polling stations, risking their safety.
International observers, including the United States and the European Union, have emphasised their expectation of a free, fair, and participatory election in Bangladesh.
According to the latest data from government agencies and human rights organisations, the nature and frequency of election-related violence are as follows:
| Type of Violence | Number of Incidents |
|---|---|
| Intimidation/Aggressive Behaviour | 16 |
| Attacks on Candidates | 15 |
| Murders | 5 |
| Clashes Between Rival Supporters | 89 |
| Illegal Weapon Use | 3 |
| Threats/Intimidation | 9 |
| Obstruction of Campaigning | 29 |
| Attacks on Election Offices (including arson) | 20 |
| Blockades and Protests | 17 |
| Attacks on Minorities | 1 |
| Other Violent Incidents | 70 |
Historical patterns of electoral violence also reveal significant concerns:
| Parliamentary Term | Number of Incidents | Deaths | Injuries |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10th (2013–14) | 530 | 115 | 315 |
| 11th (2018–19) | 414 | 22 | 780 |
| 12th (2023–24) | 534 | 6 | 460 |
Data from the Ain o Salish Kendra (ASK) indicates that violence escalates in the month preceding the elections. In December 2025, 18 incidents resulted in 4 deaths and 268 injuries, whereas January 2026 saw 75 incidents, 11 deaths, and 616 injuries. During the first eleven days of the campaign period (22–31 January), 49 violent incidents were reported, causing 4 deaths and 414 injuries.
Security arrangements have come under scrutiny, particularly concerning the renaming and rebranding of the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB). On 3 February, Home Affairs Advisor Lieutenant General (Ret.) Md. Jahangir Alam Chowdhury announced that RAB would henceforth operate under the name “Special Intervention Force” (SIF). Analysts warn that implementing such changes just one week before the election could increase security risks.
Meanwhile, the military remains a primary pillar of voter confidence. Army Chief General Waker-uz-Zaman has assured that all law enforcement agencies will act decisively to maintain order and protect voters, taking strict legal action against any attempts to obstruct access to polling stations.
Political analysts stress that ensuring a participatory election requires responsible conduct from political parties. The primary challenge is to allow voters to cast their ballots freely, safely, and without intimidation, thereby preserving the integrity of the democratic process.