The International Republican Institute (IRI), a Washington-based organisation promoting democracy worldwide, has called on Bangladesh’s incoming government to promptly implement the July Charter reforms and ensure institutions function effectively for all citizens.
“Now that the election is over, the hard work of governance begins. The enthusiasm of the Bangladeshi people must be translated into meaningful action,” said David Dreier, IRI delegation leader and former US congressman.
The IRI, which deployed election observers to Dhaka from 9 to 13 February, noted that the 13th Parliamentary Election marked a crucial step in Bangladesh’s democratic transition following the July 2024 Uprising that ended over 15 years of Awami League rule.
The delegation met with the Election Commission (EC), political parties, interim government officials and civil society organisations to assess the electoral environment and future prospects.
According to the delegation, Election Day was largely peaceful, well-administered and incident-free, a notable improvement given the country’s history of authoritarian rule.
Security forces and the EC performed effectively, though localised clashes occurred during the campaign period. Turnout stood at 59 per cent, with many first-time voters under 35 participating, and reforms allowing citizens turning 18 by Election Day to vote helped broaden participation.
However, the IRI highlighted ongoing challenges, including the underrepresentation of women, indigenous and religious minorities among candidates. Some structural barriers, such as inaccessible polling stations for the elderly and mobility-impaired, were observed. Instances of partisan activity near polling entrances raised concerns about perceptions of unequal influence.
The delegation praised the EC’s transparency and reforms, including postal voting for citizens abroad, accredited citizen observers, and nationwide voter education campaigns. It recommended extending the observation period to allow comprehensive evaluation of the electoral cycle, including dispute adjudication and gazette notification.
Dreier emphasised that the new government must translate electoral success into institutional reform and inclusive governance while addressing historical inequalities and protecting minority communities.
The IRI will continue monitoring post-election developments and plans to release a detailed report with recommendations to strengthen Bangladesh’s democratic framework.
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