‘AL indirectly active in election’
TIB chief also says boycott is self-imposed as party leaders, activists remain politically engaged
FE REPORT | Wednesday, 11 February 2026
Despite the Awami League's official decision not to contest the national election, the party continues to exert influence on the political landscape through indirect participation and disruptive activities, according to Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB).
Speaking amid ongoing debate over the inclusivity and credibility of the polls, TIB Executive Director Dr Iftekharuzzaman argued that the ruling party's absence from the ballot does not equate to an absence from the electoral process itself.
He made the remarks while speaking to journalists on the sidelines of the launch of the Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) 2025 in Dhaka on Tuesday.
Responding to questions about the inclusivity of the election in the absence of the Awami League, Dr Iftekharuzzaman challenged the notion that the party is entirely removed from the process.
He said Awami League leaders and activists remain active at the grassroots level and are involved in campaigning through alternative political platforms.
"So we cannot say they are not in the election," he said.
"The Awami League has declared that it will not participate in the election. That is a self-imposed boycott," he added, noting that the party's supporters and leaders continue political activities despite not contesting under the party's traditional symbol.
He further alleged that the party is attempting to influence the electoral environment through destabilising actions.
According to him, efforts are being made to create tension and uncertainty through violence and other means, possibly with external instigation.
"If they want to be politically re-established in Bangladesh, the responsibility lies with their leadership," he said, stressing that the party must acknowledge its past actions and demonstrate accountability if it seeks renewed public acceptance.
Commenting on reports of voter intimidation and coercion, the TIB chief said such practices point to deeper structural problems in the country's political culture, rather than being confined to any single party.
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