As the law and order situation worsens in Bangladesh under the Muhammad Yunus-led interim government, Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) cautioned that failure to control mob violence could affect the upcoming national election on February 12. TIB Executive Director Iftekharuzzaman expressed concerns during an event at the TIB office in Dhaka.
Iftekharuzzaman highlighted that if mob violence persists unchecked, it could disrupt not only the election but also various other sectors in the country. He pointed out that the emergence of mob violence within the government, particularly at the Bangladesh Secretariat, has weakened the interim government’s moral authority.
Regarding election-related violence, Iftekharuzzaman emphasized the importance of considering worst-case scenarios in risk assessments. He mentioned that the risk of violence is anticipated to persist not only until February 12 but also for several days after the election.
Iftekharuzzaman raised doubts about the impartiality of post-July 2024 accountability measures, questioning whether they are driven by justice or a desire for revenge. He expressed concerns that certain initiatives, such as trials for crimes against humanity and corruption, may lack impartiality and target specific individuals.
Criticizing the interim government’s recent ordinances, Iftekharuzzaman described the Broadcasting Ordinance and the Media Commission Ordinance as symbolic and misleading steps that enhance state control over the media. He criticized these measures as an attempt to increase government influence over the media under the guise of reform.
Bangladesh has witnessed a surge in violence and a deteriorating law and order situation since the Yunus-led interim government came to power in 2024.
