Speakers at a citizens’ dialogue on Sunday raised serious concerns over the government’s role and responsibility amid a surge in political violence, targeted killings, and growing uncertainty surrounding the upcoming national election.
The discussion was organised by Nagorik Coalition at CIRDAP auditorium in the city, in association with Voice for Reform and BRAIN bringing together civil society members, political leaders, and rights activists.
Renowned photographer and human rights activist Shahidul Alam said ensuring public security remains the most critical challenge ahead of the election. “Security must be guaranteed not only for candidates and voters, but also for ordinary citizens—before, during, and after the polls,” he said, adding that people deserve clarity on what kind of environment the country is heading towards.
He noted inconsistencies in statements from different arms of the government and state institutions, which, he said, are fueling public mistrust. Referring to recent attacks on media outlets such as The Daily Star and Prothom Alo, Shahidul Alam said these incidents did not occur in isolation and had been anticipated for some time. “If the government fails to protect journalists, media institutions, or young political leaders, how can ordinary citizens feel safe?” he questioned.
Shahidul Alam also referred to the killing of Sharif Osman Hadi, saying justice for such crimes remains elusive. He questioned how perpetrators managed to flee and why adequate protection was not provided despite repeated warnings.
“We will not get Hadi back, but we must protect those he inspired,” he said, also citing similar incidents, including a killing in Mymensingh, as evidence of systemic failure.
Summarising the discussion, Ganosamhati Andolon Chief Coordinator Junaid Saki said Bangladesh is experiencing a period of severe political instability marked by systematic violence aimed at derailing the election. He alleged that fallen authoritarian forces, with alleged external backing, are deliberately creating chaos to portray the country as ungovernable.
He further criticised the interim government’s slow response, noting that delayed police action mirrors the failures of previous regimes. “Without securing the electoral process, neither political reform nor constitutional progress is possible,” he said.
Speaking at the event, Shah Iftekhar Tariq of Islami Andolon Bangladesh sharply criticised the government, describing it as ineffective despite possessing sufficient authority. “This is perhaps the most powerless government we have seen, not because it lacks power, but because it refuses to use it,” he said.
He warned that the country is heading towards what he termed an “administration-controlled election” due to a deteriorating law and order situation. According to him, armed groups and networks that previously served authoritarian interests remain active and have shifted allegiance, posing a severe threat to reform-minded candidates. “In such an environment, candidates demanding reform risk intimidation or even assassination,” he said.
Saying that the conspiracy against the election has started, Gono Odhikar Parishad General Secretary Rashed Khan said the home advisor and the current election commission should be replaced if they fail to present a proper electoral environment.
The speakers also expressed concern over the lack of seriousness shown by key state officials in addressing violence and security threats, saying such attitudes undermine public confidence and democratic processes.
The speakers unanimously called for immediate political accountability, strengthened security measures, and protection of citizens, journalists, and political actors to safeguard democratic gains achieved after the July uprising and to move the country towards a safer, more inclusive future.
Fahim Mashroor, CEO of bdjobs.com and co-coordinator of Nagorik Coalition, conducted the event.