Politicians need to take a hard look at themselves, according to Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB)

In a stark warning, Iftekharuzzaman, a prominent figure, has emphasized the urgent need for political parties in Bangladesh to foster a people-centered political culture. He highlighted the importance of internal democratic practices, accountability, and ethics to break away from the old, unhealthy political culture that has plagued the nation.

The resurgence of extortion, illegal occupation of transport terminals, markets, and other resources, and a "now it's our turn" mindset leading to power abuse, has been a cause for concern. Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) has described this behaviour as a troubling sign, potentially leading to power abuse.

TIB has urged political parties to face the mirror and learn from the core principles of the anti-authoritarian movements. However, some activists from new political parties that emerged from the anti-discrimination movement have engaged in irregularities, effectively adopting existing corrupt practices.

This mindset has manifested in widespread factionalism, extortion, illegal occupation, plundering of state resources, and violence. The political parties criticized by Transparency International Bangladesh for collaborating with corrupt practices of the fallen authoritarian government are primarily the Awami League (AL) and the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP).

Traditional partisan practices, illegal occupations, and the "trading over political positions" have intensified. Law enforcement agencies and the administration have sometimes failed to control actors involved in misuse of power and played a "supportive or protective role".

Iftekharuzzaman highlighted the use of coercion when asserting demands, often leading to violations of the rights of minorities, women, indigenous, and marginalized communities. He warned that the new political arrangement risks being held hostage by the old, unhealthy political culture.

Over the last year, the actions of some leaders and activists of the country's most influential political parties have reflected multi-faceted misuse of power and self-serving practices. TIB has expressed concern over the behaviour of some leaders and activists from certain political parties. The Transparency International Bangladesh chief pointed out the "alarming gaps in internal accountability" within political parties.

If political parties do not ensure internal accountability, the disappointment of the people will deepen. This is an ominous sign for the "New Bangladesh" envisioned by the people, according to TIB. Iftekharuzzaman posed a critical question to political parties, asking if they intend to end authoritarian practices or nurture and perpetuate them. He emphasized that fundamental reform is essential to distinguish the politics of a "New Bangladesh" from the authoritarianism of the past.

Politicians need to take a hard look at themselves, according to Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB)