British MPs warn Bangladesh election risks “disenfranchising millions” Ansar Ahmed Ullah
Senior UK parliamentarians have raised serious concerns about the integrity of Bangladesh’s planned elections in February 2026, warning that current restrictions could undermine democracy and stability in the country. In a joint statement, MPs said Bangladesh faces a “critical crossroads” as it prepares for its first national poll since the interim government was formed last year following the overthrow of Sheikh Hasina.
The MPs stressed that the election must be “genuinely participatory” and ideally overseen by impartial international observers if it is to contribute to a just, stable and prosperous future for the country. They voiced particular alarm at the ongoing ban on widely supported political parties, arguing that this move contradicts guidance from the United Nations as well as advice from the UK and Bangladesh’s long-standing international partners. Without free, fair and inclusive elections, millions of ordinary Bangladeshis will be disenfranchised and simply will not vote at all,” the statement said, adding that any election held without the participation of major parties cannot be considered democratic.
The MPs also questioned the legitimacy of the interim administration led by Nobel laureate Dr Muhammad Yunus, noting that an unelected government should not impose restrictions on voters’ political choices. While acknowledging that Bangladesh’s political polarisation has deep roots and that all parties share some responsibility, the statement argued that national reconciliation and economic recovery depend on restoring political pluralism and allowing opposition parties to operate freely.
The MPs highlighted the UK’s close trade and development ties with Bangladesh and said they were troubled by credible reports of politically motivated detentions, arbitrary arrests and systematic failures in the justice system, including the targeting of journalists. They urged the British government and international bodies such as the United Nations to continue pressing Dr Yunus to uphold democratic principles, protect civil liberties and ensure the 2026 elections are free, fair and inclusive. The statement was signed by Bob Blackman MP, Jim Shannon MP, Jas Atwal MP and Chris Law MP.
