Introduction: Exploring Forms of Government and

Elections in Bangladesh
Bangladesh, a vibrant South Asian nation, boasts a rich history and complex political landscape.
Its journey since independence in 1971 has been marked by various forms of government, each
shaping its political trajectory and leaving an indelible mark on its electoral processes. This
paper delves into this fascinating realm, exploring the different forms of government that
Bangladesh has experimented with and analyzing their impact on the country's electoral system.
Setting the Stage: The Birth of a Nation
Emerging from the ashes of the Bangladesh Liberation War, the newly independent nation
embraced a parliamentary democratic republic as its initial governing system. The 1972
Constitution enshrined this framework, vesting executive power in the Prime Minister and
establishing a unicameral legislature, the Jatiyo Sangshad. This system, inspired by the
Westminster model, embodied the ideals of popular representation and democratic governance.
Shifting Sands: Experimenting with Power
However, Bangladesh's political journey has not been without its twists and turns. Soon after
independence, a period of political turmoil unfolded, leading to the transfer of executive powers
to the Presidency in 1975. This marked a significant shift towards a presidential system, albeit
with a weak parliament. This alteration had a profound effect on the electoral landscape,
centralizing power and diminishing the role of the legislature.
The Return to the Fold: Embracing Parliamentary Democracy
The 1990s witnessed a resurgence of democratic aspirations in Bangladesh. The Twelfth
Amendment to the Constitution in 1991 restored the parliamentary system, returning executive
power to the Prime Minister and strengthening the Jatiyo Sangshad's role. This shift was
accompanied by the introduction of a unique feature: the caretaker government system. This non-
partisan interim administration, established during election periods, aimed to ensure a level
playing field for all political parties and facilitate free and fair elections.
Navigating the Challenges: Issues and Reforms
Despite its commitment to democratic principles, Bangladesh's electoral system has faced
challenges. Allegations of voter fraud, violence, and political interference have cast a shadow on
some elections. The caretaker government system, initially celebrated as a safeguard for
democracy, has also come under scrutiny for its potential for partisan bias.
Beyond the System: The Role of Political Parties
The political landscape of Bangladesh is dominated by two major parties: the Bangladesh
Awami League and the Bangladesh Nationalist Party. Their historical rivalry has shaped the
country's political discourse and significantly influenced its electoral outcomes. Smaller parties
and independent candidates also play a role, adding diversity and complexity to the political
spectrum.
Unpacking the Present: Looking Ahead As Bangladesh continues its democratic journey, the
evolution of its government and electoral system remains an ongoing process. The country
grapples with the challenges of ensuring free and fair elections, fostering inclusivity and
participation, and safeguarding the integrity of its institutions. Understanding the historical
context of various forms of government and their impact on elections is crucial for appreciating
the current political landscape and envisioning a vibrant democratic future for Bangladesh.
This paper will delve deeper into these themes, analyzing the strengths and weaknesses of
different forms of government, examining the role of elections in shaping Bangladesh's political
trajectory, and exploring the ongoing challenges and opportunities for democratic reform. By
studying this complex and dynamic system, we gain valuable insights into the evolving political
landscape of Bangladesh and its aspirations for a just and equitable future.

Precolonial and Colonial Period:

Before British colonization in the 18th century, Bangladesh was ruled by various Hindu and
Muslim dynasties, with a dominant monarchical system. The Mughal Empire, which held sway
over the region for centuries, established a centralized administration, but regional autonomy and
local governance structures also existed. This period laid the foundation for political institutions
that evolved in later years.
British rule brought significant changes, including the establishment of a centralized bureaucratic
system and the introduction of limited representative government through legislative councils.
However, these councils were dominated by the British and offered minimal participation for the
local population. This period of colonial rule laid the groundwork for the emergence of political
parties and nationalist movements that would later demand independence.
Post-Independence and Early Years:
Following independence in 1971, Bangladesh adopted a parliamentary system with a president as
the head of state and a prime minister as the head of government. This system was heavily
influenced by the Westminster model, reflecting the influence of the British colonial system.
However, the early years of independence were marked by political instability, with coups d'état
interrupting democratic governance.
Military Rule and the Rise of Caretaker Governments:
The period from 1975 to 1990 saw military rule in Bangladesh, marking a significant deviation
from the democratic path. This period saw a consolidation of power in the hands of the military
and the suppression of political dissent. However, it also led to economic growth and
infrastructure development.
With the return to democracy in 1990, a unique system of caretaker governments was
established. This system involved the appointment of a neutral government to oversee national
elections, aimed at ensuring fairness and minimizing the influence of ruling parties. While
initially successful, this system later fueled political tension and instability.
Contemporary Politics and Challenges:
In the 21st century, Bangladesh has continued to grapple with political challenges, including
allegations of electoral manipulation, corruption, and the dominance of two major parties: the
 Awami League and the Bangladesh Nationalist Party. These parties have largely alternated
power, raising concerns about political polarization and the lack of viable alternatives.
Despite these challenges, Bangladesh has made significant strides towards democratization.
Voter turnout remains high, and the media plays a more active role in holding the government
accountable. Civil society organizations are also increasingly engaged in promoting democratic
values and advocating for greater transparency and accountability.
Bangladesh's current form of government is a unitary parliamentary republic. This means that the
country is governed by a central government, and the head of state is the president, who is
primarily a ceremonial figure. The head of government is the prime minister, who is appointed
by the president and must be a member of the majority party in parliament.
The government of Bangladesh is divided into three branches:

 Legislative: The unicameral parliament, known as the Jatiya Sangsad, is responsible for making
laws. It is composed of 350 members, 300 of whom are directly elected by the people and 50 of
whom are reserved for wom

Jatiya Sangsad building in Bangladesh

 Executive: The Council of Ministers, headed by the prime minister, is responsible for carrying
out the day-to-day operations of the government.
 Judiciary: The judiciary is independent of the executive and legislative branches. The Supreme
Court is the highest court in the land, and there are also High Court divisions and lower courts.
History of Bangladesh's Government:

 1971: Bangladesh gained independence from Pakistan. A provisional government was

formed, and a constitution was drafted.
 1972: The constitution was adopted, and Bangladesh became a parliamentary republic.
 1975: A military coup d'état took place, and Bangladesh became a one-party state.
 1981: The military government stepped down, and Bangladesh held its first democratic elections
in six years.
 1991: The constitution was amended to create a more democratic system of government.
 2008: The current constitution was adopted.
Challenges to Bangladesh's Democracy:

 Corruption: Corruption is a major problem in Bangladesh, and it undermines public trust in the
government.
 Political instability: Bangladesh has a history of political instability, including military coups and
periods of martial law.
 Weak rule of law: The rule of law is weak in Bangladesh, and this can lead to human rights
abuses and a lack of accountability.
 Poverty: Poverty is a major problem in Bangladesh, and it can make it difficult for people to
participate in the democratic process.
 Despite these challenges, Bangladesh has made significant progress in developing a democratic
system of government. The country has held regular elections, and the government has made
efforts to address corruption and improve the rule of law. However, there are still many
challenges that need to be addressed in order for Bangladesh to become a fully functioning
democracy.
1. Importance of Elections in a Democratic System: Elections play a crucial role in any democratic
system, including Bangladesh. They serve as a mechanism through which citizens can express
their political preferences and choose their representatives. The importance of elections in a
democratic system lies in the following aspects:
a. Representation: Elections provide a means for the people to choose individuals who will
represent their interests and concerns in government bodies.
b. Accountability: Regular elections create a system of accountability where elected officials are
answerable to the electorate. If citizens are dissatisfied with the performance of their
representatives, they can express their discontent through the ballot box.
c. Legitimacy: Elected representatives derive their authority from the mandate given to them by
the people. This legitimacy is essential for the functioning of a democratic government.
d. Participation: Elections encourage citizen participation in the political process, fostering a
sense of civic duty and engagement.
2. Frequency and Types of Elections in Bangladesh: Bangladesh follows a multi-tiered electoral
system with various types of elections conducted at different levels. The key elections include:
a. Parliamentary Elections: These are held to elect members to the Jatiya Sangsad, the national
parliament of Bangladesh. Members are elected through a first-past-the-post (FPTP) system,
where the candidate with the highest number of votes in each constituency wins.
b. Local Government Elections: These elections are conducted to choose representatives for
local government bodies, including city corporations, municipalities, and union councils. Local
government elections aim to decentralize power and ensure community-level governance.
c. Presidential Elections: The President of Bangladesh is elected by an electoral college
consisting of members of the Jatiya Sangsad and local government representatives.
d. Upazila Parishad Elections: Upazila Parishads are sub-district level administrative units, and
elections are held to choose representatives for these bodies.
e. Union Parishad Elections: Union Parishads represent the lowest level of local government in
rural areas, and elections are held to select members for these councils.
f. City Corporation and Municipal Elections: Elections are conducted to choose mayors and
council members for city corporations and municipalities.

The frequency of these elections varies. Parliamentary elections are typically held every five
years, while local government elections may occur more frequently at the city, municipal, and
union levels. The specific schedule and timing of elections are determined by the Election
Commission of Bangladesh, which oversees the entire electoral process in the country.
 Election Commission of Bangladesh:

1. Role and Responsibilities:

 Conducting Elections: The primary responsibility of the Election Commission (EC) in

Bangladesh is to conduct free, fair, and transparent elections at various levels, including national,
regional, and local elections.
 Delimitation of Constituencies: The EC is tasked with the delimitation of constituencies,
ensuring a fair representation of the population in electoral districts.
 Voter Registration: It oversees the voter registration process, ensuring that eligible citizens are
enrolled in the voter list, and it updates the list regularly.
 Political Party Registration: The EC is responsible for the registration and regulation of
political parties, ensuring they adhere to legal and ethical standards.
 Monitoring Election Campaigns: It monitors election campaigns to ensure compliance with
election laws and ethical standards.
 Implementing Electoral Laws: The EC interprets and implements electoral laws, rules, and
regulations to maintain the integrity of the electoral process.

2. Independence and Challenges Faced:

 Independence:
 Constitutional Autonomy: The Election Commission in Bangladesh is constitutionally
independent, which means it operates autonomously without interference from the
executive or legislative branches of the government.
 Security of Tenure: The Chief Election Commissioner and other commissioners have
security of tenure, providing them with protection against arbitrary removal and ensuring
stability in their roles.
 Financial Autonomy: The EC has financial autonomy to manage its budget
independently, reducing the risk of financial influence from external entities.
 Challenges Faced:
 Political Interference: Despite constitutional provisions for independence, there have
been instances of perceived political interference, which can undermine the EC's
autonomy.
 Electoral Violence: Ensuring peaceful elections is challenging due to incidents of
electoral violence, which may impact the free and fair conduct of elections.
 Voter Intimidation: Voter intimidation and coercion can be significant challenges,
affecting the voters' ability to freely express their choices.
 Technological Challenges: Adapting to and managing technological advancements in
the electoral process, such as electronic voting machines (EVMs), can pose challenges.
 Public Trust and Perception: Building and maintaining public trust in the electoral process is
crucial. Challenges related to transparency, fairness, and responsiveness to public concerns can
affect the perception of the EC's effectiveness.
 Capacity Building: The EC faces the ongoing challenge of enhancing its capacity to efficiently
manage and oversee elections, including the training of election officials and staff.
 Despite these challenges, the Election Commission in Bangladesh plays a vital role in the
democratic process and has been working to address these issues to strengthen the electoral
system in the country.

Concept of Sovereignty in Bangladesh:

1. Definition and Significance:

Sovereignty refers to the supreme authority and power of a state to govern itself without
interference from external forces. It encompasses the idea that a state has the exclusive right to
make and enforce laws within its territory. In the context of Bangladesh, sovereignty holds
immense significance as the nation strives to assert its independence and autonomy.

The Constitution of Bangladesh, adopted in 1972, serves as the supreme law of the land,
emphasizing the principles of sovereignty. The preamble of the constitution declares the resolve
to secure the blessings of democracy, justice, and freedom, and it highlights the importance of
maintaining sovereignty as a key component of the national identity.

2. How Sovereignty is Manifested in Bangladesh:

a. Constitutional Framework:

 The Constitution of Bangladesh is the foundational document that establishes the legal
framework for the exercise of sovereignty. It outlines the structure of the government, the
distribution of powers, and the fundamental rights of citizens.
 The Parliament, as the legislative organ, plays a crucial role in manifesting sovereignty. It enacts
laws, amends the constitution, and represents the will of the people.

b. Democratic Governance:

 Bangladesh operates as a parliamentary democracy, where representatives elected by the people

exercise sovereign authority on their behalf. Elections are held regularly, allowing citizens to
participate in the democratic process and contribute to decision-making.

c. Judicial Independence:

 The judiciary in Bangladesh acts as a guardian of the constitution and ensures the rule of law. An
independent judiciary contributes to the manifestation of sovereignty by adjudicating disputes,
interpreting laws, and safeguarding the rights of individuals.
 d. Foreign Policy:

 Bangladesh's foreign policy decisions are made with the aim of preserving national sovereignty.
The nation engages in diplomatic relations, international agreements, and participation in
international organizations to protect its interests on the global stage.

e. Military and National Security:

 The Bangladesh Armed Forces play a crucial role in safeguarding the nation's sovereignty. They
protect the territorial integrity of the country and contribute to peacekeeping efforts globally.

f. Cultural Identity:

 The promotion and preservation of cultural identity also contribute to the manifestation of
sovereignty. Bangladesh emphasizes its unique cultural heritage, language, and traditions,
reinforcing a sense of national identity.

In summary, sovereignty in Bangladesh is manifested through its constitutional framework,

democratic governance, independent judiciary, foreign policy decisions, military strength, and
the promotion of cultural identity. These elements collectively contribute to the assertion and
preservation of Bangladesh's sovereignty in the global context.
Internal Challenges to Sovereignty:
1. Ethnic and Cultural Diversity:
 Internal divisions based on ethnicity, religion, or culture can lead to separatist movements
and demands for autonomy, challenging the unity and sovereignty of a nation.
2. Political Instability:
 Frequent changes in government, political unrest, or instability can weaken the central
authority and create opportunities for external actors to exert influence.
3. Economic Issues:
 Economic crises, high levels of corruption, and income inequality can lead to social
unrest, protests, and challenges to the government's legitimacy, affecting its ability to
maintain sovereignty.
4. Secessionist Movements:
 Regions or groups seeking independence may challenge the central government's control,
leading to conflicts that threaten the overall sovereignty of the nation.
5. Human Rights Abuses:
 If a government engages in widespread human rights abuses, it may face international
pressure and interventions, impacting its sovereignty as other nations or international
organizations may intervene to protect human rights.

External Challenges to Sovereignty:

1. Military Interventions:
  Invasions, occupations, or military interventions by foreign powers can directly challenge
a nation's sovereignty, as seen in instances of armed conflict or interventions for regime
change.
2. Economic Dependencies:
 Heavy reliance on foreign aid, loans, or economic partnerships may compromise a
nation's economic sovereignty, as external actors may use economic leverage to influence
domestic policies.
3. International Organizations:
 Membership in international organizations may require a nation to comply with certain
rules and regulations, limiting its ability to make sovereign decisions on certain matters.
4. Globalization:
 The interconnected nature of the global economy can expose nations to external
economic pressures, trade sanctions, or financial crises that impact their sovereignty.
5. Cyber Threats:
 Cyberattacks from foreign entities can compromise a nation's security and critical
infrastructure, posing a threat to its ability to govern and protect its sovereignty.
6. Diplomatic Pressure:
 Nations may face external pressure through diplomatic means, such as sanctions or
isolation, which can impact their ability to make independent decisions.
7. Transnational Issues:
 Challenges like terrorism, organized crime, and pandemics can require international
cooperation, but they may also lead to external involvement that infringes on a nation's
autonomy.

Addressing both internal and external challenges is crucial for maintaining and safeguarding a
nation's sovereignty. Effective governance, diplomatic strategies, and cooperation with the
international community are often key components of successfully navigating these challenges.
Conclusion, the key findings underscore the critical role of a stable government, effective
elections, and sovereignty in fostering the progress and development of Bangladesh. The analysis
reveals that these factors are not only interconnected but also pivotal in shaping the nation's
political landscape and overall well-being.

A. Summarizing key findings:

1. Stability in government is foundational: The research highlights the significance of a stable

government in providing the necessary groundwork for sustained growth and progress. Political
stability fosters an environment conducive to economic development, social cohesion, and
effective governance.
2. Effective elections as a cornerstone: The study underscores the importance of fair and
transparent elections in ensuring representative leadership. By promoting inclusivity and giving
citizens a voice in the democratic process, effective elections contribute to the legitimacy of the
government and enhance public trust in institutions.
3. Sovereignty as a driving force: The analysis emphasizes the need for safeguarding sovereignty as
a fundamental aspect of national identity and self-determination. Respecting and upholding
 sovereignty ensures that the nation can make independent decisions in the best interest of its
citizens, free from external interference.

B. Emphasizing the importance of a stable government, effective elections, and sovereignty in

Bangladesh:

1. Political stability for sustainable progress: A stable government provides the foundation for
economic growth, social stability, and effective policy implementation. It enables long-term
planning and encourages investment, fostering an environment conducive to development.
2. Democratic legitimacy through effective elections: Fair and transparent elections are essential for
ensuring that the government represents the will of the people. This democratic legitimacy
enhances the government's ability to address the diverse needs of the population and promotes a
sense of inclusivity and civic engagement.
3. Safeguarding sovereignty for independent decision-making: Upholding sovereignty is crucial in
protecting the nation's ability to make decisions independently, without external pressures. This
autonomy allows Bangladesh to pursue policies that align with its unique circumstances and
priorities, contributing to the overall well-being of its citizens.

In conclusion, a stable government, effective elections, and sovereignty are interlinked elements
that play a pivotal role in shaping the trajectory of Bangladesh. Recognizing and prioritizing
these factors will be instrumental in fostering a resilient and prosperous future for the nation and
its people.