In Bangladesh's political history, national parliamentary elections are not merely a constitutional procedure; they are the focal point that determines the democratic future of the nation. The upcoming election scheduled for February 2026 is another crucial turning point. Its outcome will shape the trajectory of rebuilding Bangladesh's democracy and lay the foundation for long-term political stability.
Over the past decade and a half, political deadlock, authoritarian tendencies of the ruling government, and the weakened presence of the opposition have severely eroded the effectiveness of the administration, law enforcement agencies, and intelligence services. In this reality, restoring public trust in the prospect of a free, fair, and participatory election has made the role of the Bangladesh Army increasingly indispensable.
The army stands as the moral and psychological center of the nation. Born from the spirit of the Liberation War, this force has consistently demonstrated exceptional responsibility during natural disasters, administrative failures, and political crises. Since independence, the army has served as a symbol of national sovereignty and stability during every major crisis. As a result, it occupies a unique place in the public consciousness as a symbol of security, trust, and national unity.
Ahead of the 2026 election, the army's role extends far beyond providing physical security. It has the potential to serve as the foundation for restoring democratic confidence among citizens. Although the interim government enjoys public support, it lacks direct experience in managing complex political structures or administering nationwide elections. Meanwhile, the police and civil administration, burdened by years of political influence, questionable accountability, and eroded public trust, are not capable of carrying out this responsibility on their own.
Although the Awami fascist government has been removed from power, many of its loyalists remain active across the country. Their exclusion from the electoral process may prompt attempts to create chaos and instability. Under these circumstances, only the army, with its neutrality, professionalism, and discipline, can reliably and effectively monitor and secure the electoral environment.
Some past incidents have created differing views about the conduct of certain army officers. However, these criticisms were not directed at the institution as a whole. They reflected the personal ambitions, political pressure, or situational constraints faced by individuals under specific political circumstances. As an institution, the army has never been collectively driven by a desire for power. Its organizational principles, discipline, patriotism, and professional integrity have consistently been dedicated to public welfare. It is therefore unjust and unfounded to assign the blame for isolated incidents to the entire force.
Historically, the army has played a leading role in protecting national security, combating terrorism, preventing arms and drug trafficking along the borders, implementing the Chittagong Hill Tracts Peace Accord, and rescuing and rehabilitating civilians during natural disasters. Internationally, Bangladesh remains one of the largest contributors to United Nations peacekeeping missions. The professionalism and humanitarian service of the Bangladesh Army have earned the country global respect, and this international exposure has positively influenced internal security capacity and administrative efficiency.
During the previous Awami fascist regime, however, the administration, law enforcement, and intelligence agencies were systematically used as political instruments, a period best described as authoritarianism disguised as democracy. During this time, the army was often compelled to play a limited and constrained role. The upcoming election presents an opportunity to reverse that legacy.
A free, fair, and participatory election is essential for political stability, economic progress, and the restoration of international confidence. If the army can ensure a safe, violence-free, and transparent election, the benefits will be multidimensional. Bangladesh's standing in UN peacekeeping operations will strengthen further, international cooperation and foreign investment will increase, public trust will be restored, and political polarization will gradually diminish. Above all, democracy will experience a renewed awakening.
The presence of the army during the election must not be viewed as a source of fear but as a symbol of reassurance. To establish this perception, its conduct must remain professional, humane, and people-friendly, with particular sensitivity toward women, minorities, and vulnerable communities. At the same time, a dedicated information response mechanism is necessary to counter misinformation, alongside real-time coordination among security forces and a modernized intelligence structure.
The success of the 2026 election will ultimately depend on how impartially and constitutionally the army maintains law and order. Every action must be guided by democratic values, professionalism, and restraint. If the army remains neutral and firm in discharging its duties, the benefits will be far-reaching.
First and foremost, the most fundamental pillar of sustainable democracy-fear-free voting rights-will be restored. A credible election ensures that the will of the people genuinely determines state power, which is the essence of democracy. Second, Bangladesh will be able to rebuild its international credibility. For years, the European Union, the United States, the United Nations, and development partners have demanded a credible election. A successful electoral process under competent and humane military support will significantly enhance global confidence in Bangladesh, particularly in terms of foreign investment, trade privileges, and expanded peacekeeping opportunities.
Third, the country's domestic economy and political environment will benefit from renewed stability. Prolonged political unrest, violence, and administrative failures have damaged the business climate. A peaceful election will restore investor confidence, stabilize financial markets, and allow long-term policymaking. Effective security management by the army will also help reduce everyday violence and encourage a political culture where disagreements persist without escalating into conflict.
lastly, a successful election will uphold and enhance the army's own institutional dignity. In the past, some members faced criticism due to political pressure and circumstances beyond their control. The 2026 election provides an opportunity to rise above those criticisms and rebuild public trust, an invaluable asset for any national institution.
In conclusion, Bangladesh's 2026 election represents a historic opportunity for the army. It is a moment to elevate its moral standing, professional excellence, humane conduct, and constitutional loyalty to new heights. Bangladesh's democracy has been wounded many times, yet it has survived through the resilience of its people and the presence of reliable institutions such as the army. Today, the nation stands at another critical juncture where public expectations, state stability, and the future of democracy depend on the army's responsible role. If the army performs its duties with professionalism, neutrality, and patriotism, the 2026 election will not merely mark a political transition but will stand as a symbol of national renewal. Bangladesh will once again demonstrate that in times of crisis, its greatest strength lies in the mutual trust between its people and its army-a trust that preserves democracy and guides the nation toward a stable, prosperous, and dignified future.
The writer is an economist
