TIB urges political parties to engage in self-questing

Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) has raised grave concerns over the deepening crisis of accountability, ethics, and internal democracy within the country’s political culture, warning that the situation is deteriorating at an alarming rate.

TIB Executive Director Dr. Iftekharuzzaman said that although the fall of authoritarian rule was expected to usher in stronger democratic practices and reforms within political parties, the reality has fallen short of expectations, in a statement issued on Sunday.

Instead, the country is witnessing a resurgence of abuse of power, partisan dominance, extortion, position trading and violent political conflict, he added.

“It is time for political parties to engage in self-questioning,” said Dr. Iftekharuzzaman. “To fulfill the aspirations of the people-and especially to honour the sacrifices made during the historic July Uprising must establish a politics that is people-oriented and built on democratic values, ethical leadership and accountable governance.”

TIB warned that unless political parties reform their internal structures and practices, public frustration and distrust will continue to grow, threatening both democratic stability and inclusive development.

The organisation reiterated its call for all political actors to prioritise internal democracy, uphold transparency, and commit to ethical standards in public life to restore public confidence and strengthen the democratic process in Bangladesh.