Washington DC, February 16, 2026 – The Washington-based think tank Institute for Strategic Dialogue (ISD) has expressed deep concern over the democratic legitimacy of Bangladesh’s 13th parliamentary election, held on February 12, 2026. Executive Director Shaila Ahmed informed IBN News of the statement.

ISD rejected the “vote-less theatrical” nature of the election conducted under the previous government led by Dr. Muhammad Yunus and has called for a truly free, fair, and transparent election ensuring the participation of all political parties.

The organization observed that the country’s largest political party, the Awami League, faced restrictions on its activities, and reports of vote-rigging, electoral manipulation, and excess votes significantly undermined public confidence in the electoral process. These concerns have also been highlighted in domestic and international media, raising serious questions about compliance with democratic standards and international norms.

ISD’s Urgent Recommendations

• Organize a new, genuinely free and fair election under a neutral, non-partisan caretaker administration, ensuring full participation of all political parties.
• Conduct an independent, impartial, and internationally credible investigation into allegations of vote fraud and electoral irregularities.
• Immediately lift restrictions imposed on the Bangladesh Awami League and its 14-party alliance to restore political inclusivity.
• Remove all restrictions on political parties and affiliated organizations to ensure a fair and equal political environment.
• Release detained political leaders, journalists, researchers, cultural figures, and professionals whose detention raises serious concerns about freedom of expression and civil rights.
• Conduct a transparent and proper investigation into allegations of legal misuse, corruption, and irregularities against former government members, including legal advisor Asif Nazrul.

ISD emphasized that elections without inclusivity, transparency, and political participation cannot be considered truly free or democratic. Bangladesh stands at a critical democratic juncture. Political inclusivity, rule of law, and the protection of civil liberties are essential not only for domestic stability but also for international credibility and democratic resilience.

ISD strongly urged the authorities to take immediate and corrective measures to restore democratic governance in Bangladesh and ensure all fundamental rights of the people.