CPD: Election will not be inclusive or credible without Awami League participation

Staff Correspondent

The Centre for Policy Dialogue (CPD), a research organisation, has said that if the Awami League is excluded from the upcoming parliamentary elections on February 12, the elections will not be inclusive and acceptable.

The organization said that the Awami League is the largest party in the country. They have been kept out of the elections. Therefore, the upcoming national parliamentary elections cannot be called participatory and acceptable elections in any way.

In a media briefing held on Saturday, February 7, the CPD said that despite the ban on activities, there are a large number of Awami League supporters who can play an important role in determining the final outcome of the election. If their opinions and participation are ignored, the credibility of the election may be questioned. This election will be questioned both at home and abroad.

In the briefing titled ‘Current Status and Prospects of Green Sustainable Economy: Results of Candidate and Voter Survey’, CPD presented data from surveys conducted in various constituencies and said that in the political reality of the country, it is difficult to organize acceptable elections by excluding any major political force and their voters. Even if an election is held, it will not be acceptable and sustainable.

According to the CPD, it is essential to include all major political parties and their supporting voters to ensure credible, participatory and democratic elections. Otherwise, there is a risk that the election results will be questioned in domestic and international circles. The elections will be questionable.

The organization further points out that elections are not just an administrative process; they are a reflection of the people’s representation and opinions. Therefore, ensuring political inclusion is the main condition for the acceptability of an election. A large number of Awami League supporters are being excluded from this election.