UK MPs Stress Inclusive Participation in Bangladesh Elections, Warn Democracy at Stake

LONDON: British Members of Parliament have expressed concern over the upcoming general elections in Bangladesh, scheduled for 12 February 2026. In a joint statement issued on Tuesday, four UK MPs – Bob Blackman, Jim Shannon, Jas Athwal, and Chris Law – emphasized that the participation of all major political parties is essential for the elections to be considered democratic. They urged the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus to ensure a free, fair, and inclusive electoral process.

The MPs described the restrictions placed on the Awami League – following the July 2024 unrest – as “worrying.” They warned that excluding major political parties would disenfranchise millions of Bangladeshi voters, undermining the legitimacy of the election. The statement called upon the United Nations and the UK government to exert pressure on the interim administration to uphold electoral integrity.

“Everyone with a fair mindset hopes that these elections will contribute to a just, stable, and prosperous Bangladesh. This will only be possible if all parties genuinely participate, and it would be beneficial for impartial international observers to be involved,” the MPs said.

Commenting on Bangladesh’s political landscape, the statement noted, “The country’s politics has been divided for a long time, and all parties share some responsibility. The future government must genuinely reflect the people’s consent, even setting aside attempts to address stalled economic growth. These elections should strengthen the culture of multiparty democracy, allowing opposition parties to play constructive roles.”

Highlighting the UK’s position as one of Bangladesh’s closest trade and development partners, the MPs expressed concern over reports of politically motivated detentions, systemic irregularities, and arbitrary arrests of journalists. Concluding their statement, they appealed to the British government and international organizations like the UN to pressure the interim government to ensure that the elections are free, fair, and inclusive.