Supporters of seat-sharing claim that alliance coordination is merely a prudent strategy to consolidate electoral strength and avoid fragmentation. The Indian Supreme Court has warned that voting rights are rendered meaningless when voters are denied the choice of candidates. It also breaches the principle of voter autonomy, a cornerstone of democratic ethics. Bangladesh is bound by the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, which requires genuine periodic elections that reflect the free expression of the electorate. In this moment of democratic rediscovery, Bangladesh has a unique opportunity to rebuild its political system on firmer ethical and constitutional foundations.

Source: Dhaka Tribune February 10, 2026 06:56 UTC