Ahead of the Thirteenth National Parliamentary Election, the Dhaka University teachers’ organization ‘Blue Group’ has stated that no election or referendum will be acceptable to the nation without the participation of all political parties. The organization expressed this concern and demand in a press release on Monday, February 9, 2026.
In the statement, Blue Group teachers said that holding an election without a participatory environment would amount to a “farce and deception” towards the nation. According to them, unless the participation of all parties is ensured, the election cannot be considered inclusive, and the true reflection of the people’s opinion will not occur.
The organization stated that the interim government was expected to organize a free and credible election in a democratic process with the participation of all political parties. However, in reality, several parties, including the Bangladesh Awami League and other pro-independence and liberation-aligned parties, are unable to participate in the election. The Blue Group believes that the Election Commission and the government have failed to create a free and participatory environment.
According to the Blue Group, to uphold democracy, the spirit of the Liberation War, and the country’s sovereignty, it is essential to conduct a free, neutral, and inclusive election. Otherwise, the election’s credibility will be questioned by both the nation and the international community. They expressed concern that a one-sided or flawed election could damage the country’s image and prolong ongoing political instability and violence, which may hinder overall socio-economic development.
The statement further mentions that various think tanks and professional organizations, including CPD, TIB, Dhaka University Teachers’ Association, journalists, doctors, engineers, and agriculturalists, have already advised the government to hold an inclusive election with the participation of all political parties.
In a statement signed by Professor A. K. M. Jamal Uddin, convener of the Dhaka University Blue Group, the government was urged to withdraw from the initiative of holding a one-sided election and to immediately ensure the participation of all political parties. At the same time, the teachers strongly demanded the organization of a free, fair, and participatory election.