The concern in Bangladesh regarding the increasing use of religion in politics, particularly during elections, has been highlighted in a recent article on a Bengali news portal. The Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) study mentioned in the article emphasized the growing trend of religious politics. It attributed this trend to the lack of a democratic political environment in the country, the influence of religious extremism, and the emergence of radical political forces.
The report cited instances of political parties making promises related to religious beliefs during election campaigns. It criticized the use of religion by various parties and leaders in Bangladesh for political gains. The article noted that leaders of religion-based political parties often use religious symbolism and attire to connect with the public.
Allegations were made against Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami for seeking votes by promising a “ticket to paradise.” A senior leader of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) compared this tactic to religious manipulations from the past. The report also highlighted the visual display of religious symbols by male and female leaders during election rallies.
According to the article, the use of religion in politics became prominent during the 1991 elections, with parties resorting to religious rhetoric to sway voters. The report mentioned instances where political leaders used religious symbolism to appeal to voters. It pointed out the increasing presence of Islamist parties in the political landscape, with a significant rise in their participation in recent elections.
The TIB study revealed that a considerable number of political parties, including Islamist groups, are participating in the upcoming February election. It noted a significant increase in the representation of Islamist parties in recent elections compared to previous years. The report concluded by suggesting that religious parties target less educated and aware voters, although historically, Islamist parties have not independently formed a government in Bangladesh.
