Election Roadmap: Everyone including BNP is interested, why Jamaat disagrees!

Since the interim government took office, discussions have intensified across various sectors, including political parties, regarding the announcement of a roadmap for the next national parliamentary elections. However, the interim government has yet to make a clear statement on the matter. Almost all political parties in the country are in a dilemma over this issue and are urging the government to announce the electoral roadmap without delay. However, Jamaat has a different stance. Unlike other parties, this Islamic political organization is not particularly concerned about the immediate announcement of an electoral roadmap. While BNP and other opposition parties are pressing for a timeline for reforms and elections, Jamaat remains focused on a different approach.

The policymakers of these political parties argue that elections should be held as soon as possible following necessary reforms, as this would be beneficial for the country. Delays, they fear, could lead to political instability and unrest. They emphasize that a government elected by the people’s vote is essential for maintaining stability. In a democratic country, an elected government is crucial for economic, social, and political development. An interim government, no matter how globally renowned its members may be, lacks the full expertise required to govern effectively. Politics and state administration demand specialized experience, which many interim government officials may not possess.

Since most of the country’s political parties were engaged in movements to unseat the Sheikh Hasina government, they are prepared for elections. If the interim government announces the election roadmap, these parties will be able to decide whether to contest individually or form alliances. This is why the majority of political parties, including BNP, are demanding a swift announcement of the electoral roadmap.

The question arises: why is Jamaat not in favor of a quick electoral roadmap? Jamaat believes that ensuring necessary reforms is more important than announcing an election date. According to their viewpoint, the overall situation of the country must first be addressed to facilitate a truly fair election. For Jamaat, the timing of the election is secondary to creating a proper environment for it.

Additionally, Jamaat has yet to decide whether it will contest the elections independently or in alliance with other parties. This uncertainty further explains why they are not rushing for an immediate electoral roadmap.

Masudur Rahman
Writer and Journalist