The political scenario in Bangladesh is worsening every day due to the confrontational relationship between the ruling Awami League party and the opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP).

The recent mayoral elections showed again that the country lacks a coordinated opposition to the Awami League party, under the leadership of Shaikh Hasina. The BNP seems only keen on playing the role of saboteur.

As a result Bangladesh is in political turmoil and this is affecting other spheres of governance, especially the economy, which is struggling, and society, which is witnessing the rise of radicalism.

The BNP boycotted the mayoral polls, allowing the Awami League to sail through virtually uncontested amidst charges of intimidation and vote rigging. Perhaps this was the BNP’s tactic to undermine the process, though the elections commission insisted otherwise.

The democratic process in Bangladesh needs urgent repair. Currently fear, uncertainty and internal turmoil prevails. The government and opposition need to display maturity and operate in a constructive instead of destructive fashion.

There is simply too much at stake at present with a government that operates on unlimited immunity and an opposition that is uncoordinated. In such a situation, anti-state elements could fracture the nation further.