UK lawmaker Blackman questions Bangladesh election credibility

Robert John Blackman CBE MP, a senior British parliamentarian and member of parliament for Harrow East, has expressed concern over recent political developments in Bangladesh, warning that democratic stability and the rule of law could be at risk if elections are not inclusive and credible.

Blackman attended and addressed a high-level seminar titled “Bangladesh at the Crossroads”, held in Committee Room 3 of the House of Lords.

In his remarks, Blackman reflected on the relationship between the United Kingdom and Bangladesh, recalling Britain’s support during Bangladesh’s War of Independence in 1971 under former prime minister Edward Heath.

He noted that Bangladesh’s founding leader made one of his earliest international visits to the UK, a gesture that, he said, underscored the longstanding friendship between the two nations.

However, Blackman said recent political shifts in Bangladesh have prompted growing unease.

While international attention had focused on protests and the loss of student lives during Sheikh Hasina’s tenure, he argued that developments following the change in government have raised “serious questions” about democratic continuity.

He pointed to concerns over political exclusion, legal proceedings conducted in absentia, and reported pressure on opposition figures.

Blackman stressed that the legitimacy of any election depends on participation, inclusivity, and public confidence.

He cited opinion polling suggesting that a significant portion of the Bangladeshi population continues to support political parties that are currently unable to participate freely in the electoral process.

“If political parties are prevented from standing in elections, democracy itself is placed under question,” he said.

He warned that boycotts, bans, or exclusions ultimately weaken representative governance and erode public trust.

The British MP also raised concerns over reports of a proposed referendum that could fundamentally reshape Bangladesh’s constitutional future.

He cautioned that any attempt to influence voters through intimidation or coercion would be incompatible with democratic norms and could carry long-term consequences for national stability.

Addressing human rights, Blackman drew attention to attacks against religious and minority communities, including Hindus, Christians, and minority Muslim groups.

He cited documented incidents involving killings, arson, and the destruction of homes and places of worship.

“These are not social media fabrications,” he said, stressing that the cases involve real victims and verified accounts.

Blackman urged members of the Bangladeshi diaspora in the UK to engage actively with their local members of parliament, calling for stronger scrutiny and a more proactive response from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office.

He concluded by reaffirming his commitment to raising these issues in Parliament while wishing success for the seminar.

The event was hosted by Lord Rami Ranger and jointly organised by Politika News, the Centre for Global Policy and Governance, and the Northampton British Bangladeshi Business Chamber.

Blackman, who has represented Harrow East since 2010, currently serves as chair of the influential 1922 Committee and chair of the Backbench Business Committee, roles he has held since 2024.

The meeting was formally welcomed by Councillor Naz Islam of Northampton Town Council and presided over by Lord Ranger.

A cross-party debate and interactive question-and-answer session followed, moderated by Tanvir Ahmed, editor-in-chief of Politika News. The keynote address was delivered by Barrister Sonjoy Kumar Roy, co-founder of the Centre for Global Policy and Governance.