The application of "green" concepts holds significant importance across various sectors, including in production and manufacturing, supply chain management, technology, e-commerce, engineering, environment, healthcare, and governance, and others. Bangladesh is considered to be among the nations most susceptible to the impacts of climate change. In order to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030, the country has already adopted environment-friendly practices in various sectors, particularly in the areas of eco-housing projects, renewable energy, and the readymade garments (RMG) industry. 

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A hazy pre-election atmosphere

But while the national election holds significant importance within Bangladesh, our current election campaign practices remain largely traditional. They include the use of banners, posters, festoons, and loudspeakers, and are not environmentally sustainable. While citizens dream of a clean and healthy country, the posters, banners, and festoons (made with paper or plastic) affect not only the appearance of our surroundings and public health but are also in conflict with the SDGs. So, is it not imperative to think of implementing environmentally conscious election campaign strategies using technology (like telecommunication and social media) in order to safeguard public health and social well-being? This will surely move Bangladesh one step closer to achieving the SDGs and the government's vision of a Smart Bangladesh.

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Posters and publicity syndrome

The use of posters, banners, and festoons is a widespread practice throughout the year in both urban and rural areas. However, it is crucial to consider the consequences of this from an environmental standpoint. I sweetly recall my time spent in Wuhan, China, walking and cycling under the green-adorned flyovers. But, after returning to Dhaka, I find myself seldom exploring the city's roads due to the endless noise of vehicles and the unnecessary use of posters, banners, and festoons along the roadside. 

Although the cost of these materials during campaigns is not known with absolute certainty, the figure can be guessed to not be insignificant. A substantial amount of funds is probably expended by the candidates for these posters and banners, which is not only ecologically irresponsible but there is also no societal benefit derived from the utilisation of these materials. Similarly, the use of loudspeakers is another major issue. Although regulatory agencies point to several restrictions, such as the fact that the use of loudspeakers is strictly prohibited in front of schools, hospitals, and places of prayers, the reality is that these restrictions are usually violated, thus adversely impacting public health.

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Barishal turns into sea of posters

The global landscape now is predominantly symbolised by a technologically-driven atmosphere, with a particular emphasis on telecommunication and social media platforms. A report released by DataReportal on "Digital 2023: Bangladesh" states that, at the beginning of 2023, the number of internet users in Bangladesh totalled 66.94 million, while the number of social media users reached 44.70 million. The latter figure corresponds to approximately 26 percent of the overall population. In early 2023, the number of active cellular network connections in Bangladesh amounted to 179.9 million, representing 104.6 percent of the country's total population. Hence, the utilisation of technology within the context of green election campaigns has the potential to greatly augment the nation's scope, engagement, effectiveness, and overall efficacy in relation to the SDGs and the concept of Digital Bangladesh.

To reach voters, political parties and candidates can embrace digital strategies and enhance their online presence in the digital age. They may make use of live-streaming to interact with citizens, initiate email campaigns, advertise through social media and text messaging, conduct virtual events, and more. Moreover, by broadcasting events, speeches, and development activities, parties and candidates can reach a wider audience and allow citizens to participate remotely. This interactive approach fosters a sense of inclusivity and enables individuals to actively engage with the green election process.

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Why election 2023 needs to be different from the last two

Despite the merits of this approach, the possibility of a breach in cybersecurity cannot be neglected. A data breach might have severe consequences if the relevant stakeholders are unable to adequately safeguard their data. Incidences of hacking and data breaches can be avoided if political parties and candidates take precautions to protect voter information and election campaign data.

However, a green election campaign that prioritises protecting the environment can yield numerous benefits for society. It can result in a cleaner environment and a peaceful community without noise pollution. The prevalence of clean spaces has been shown to have a positive impact on the psychological and physical well-being of citizens. It promotes sustainable living, recycling, waste reduction, and responsible resource consumption. All in all, a green election campaign may boost societal, monetary, and environmental benefits, promoting a more resilient and environmentally conscious society. Ahead of the upcoming national election in Bangladesh, each political party and candidate is accountable to the country to uphold social welfare.  

Dr Najmul Hasan is an assistant professor and researcher of Information Systems at Brac Business School, Brac University.

Zunaid Ahmed Palak, the Awami League candidate for Natore-3, may have broken the election law by offering cash donation to villagers in his constituency.

At a campaign in Radhanagar village of Singra upazila on Monday, Palak, also state minister for ICT, announced a donation of Tk 2 lakh to fill up a local canal and directed the local leaders and activists to work to that end.

A video clip of his speech was posted on his verified Facebook page the same day.

In another footage posted also on the same day, Palak is seen addressing a gathering at Karachmaria playground where a football match was underway. In his speech, he announced a donation of Tk 10 lakh for the construction of a gallery at the playground.

“I am announcing Tk 10 lakh in donation for the gallery,” he said.

Offering such donations before election is illegal as election laws prohibit any action or comment that may influence voters.

Radhanagar village has been without power since independence. However, just months before the election schedule was announced, authorities there hurriedly set up electric poles and completed wiring at households.

Besides, an 8km road was constructed months ago to connect Radhanagar with neighbouring Singra and Nandigram towns. But, to get on the road, villagers have to cross a canal.

On Monday, Palak told the villagers, “I have no authority just 12 days before the election. Still I will try to bring electricity to you and fill up the canal before the polls,” he said.

“If I cannot, will you punish me?” he said.

As the villagers looked unconvinced, Palak said he would donate Tk 2 lakh to fill up the canal.

Despite repeated attempts over the last three days, The Daily Star could not reach Palak by phone for comments.

But Singra AL President Ohidur Rahman, also Palak's chief election agent, said, “The state minister's speeches did not violate the [electoral] laws. In fact, he announced that he would arrange those funds if he is re-elected and our party is voted to power again. So, the question of violation does not arise.”

BNP leaders allege that AL candidates of Rajshahi region are freely campaigning through Facebook and, in some cases, misusing their power or influencing the voters in violation of the electoral rules.

By contrast, most BNP leaders and activists have been asked to refrain from posting photographs and videos of campaigning on Facebook to avoid trouble, said Rajshahi district BNP chief Tofazzal Hossain Topu.

The BNP also decided not to organise any campaign at some upazilas including Mohonpur in Rajshahi-3, Bagha in Rajshahi-6 and Atrai in Naogaon-6 to avoid confrontation, he added.

Even the last day of electioneering was marred by attacks on four aspirants from the BNP and the Jatiya Party yesterday, leaving at least 15 people injured.

With the electioneering for the 11th parliamentary polls scheduled to end at 8:00am today, Awami League candidates were seen vigorously campaigning in different places across the country.

However, their archrival, the BNP candidates, and even candidates of Jatiya Party, AL's election ally, were hardly seen, in a scenario prevalent throughout the 17-day campaigning, when ruling party men electioneered whilst others allegedly faced attacks or police harassment.

Besides, at least 40 BNP-Jamaat men were arrested on different charges in different districts yesterday.

In Pabna, at least three supporters of Jatiya Oikyafront candidate for Pabna-1 Prof Abu Sayeed were injured when alleged AL men attacked his motorcade in Selonda Bazar area of Santhia upazila. However, Sayeed remained unhurt.

“We were out campaigning and when our motorcade reached Selonda Bazar area where a group of criminals attacked our team. They opened fire and vandalised [the vehicles],” Sayeed said, while talking to The Daily Star.

Asked, Tapon Haider Sun, Santhia upazila unit AL general secretary, said, “We are busy with our campaign. I don't know any news of such attacks.”

Contacted, Md Jahangir Hossain, officer-in-charge (OC) of Santhia Police Station, said, “There was a police protection team but the attackers came suddenly and attacked. Police charged batons to disperse the attackers and brought the situation under control quickly.”

Sayeed had come under criminal attacks repeatedly around 17 to 18 times since campaigning began on December 10.

Elsewhere in Chattogram, at least three persons were injured when miscreants attacked the motorcade of JP aspirant for Chattogram-16 Mahmudul Islam Chowdhury in Green Park area of Banshkhali upazila yesterday morning. However, the candidate was unhurt.

“I was campaigning in the area and when my motorcade reached Green Park area, miscreants threw stones targeting our motorcade and attacked us with sharp weapons,” Mahmudul, also a former mayor of the Chattogram City Corporation, told The Daily Star.

He, however, could not identify the attackers. But he alleged that police were present on the spot and played a silent role.

Contacted, Kamal Hossain, OC of Banshkhali Police Station said, “It was not a big incident. While they [the candidate and his supporters] were returning after electioneering some miscreants threw stones at their vehicles.”

This was the second attack on Mahmudul in a span of a week. On December 21, at least 24 of his activists sustained bullets injuries when alleged ruling party men attacked his rally in Banshkhali upazila's Chambal Bazar area.

In Cumilla, nine BNP men were injured when alleged AL men attacked the campaign of BNP candidate for Cumilla-5 constituency Md Yunus in Nimshar Mokam area under Burichang upazila around 2:00pm yesterday.

Md Masud, president of Nimshar Mokam union unit Jubo league, denied the allegation and said BNP men attacked AL men who were holding a meeting in the area.

Akul Chandra Biswas, OC of Burichang Police Station, said, “Hearing news of the violence, police rushed to the spot and safely rescued the BNP candidate from the spot and took him to his residence. If the candidate files any compliant, then we will take action.”  

In Mymensingh, miscreants allegedly attacked the campaign of BNP's candidate for Mymensingh-3 M Iqbal Hossain and vandalised his car in Tangadipara village under Bokainagar union of Gouripur upazila yesterday afternoon.

Talking to journalists, Iqbal alleged that he had been campaigning at different spots since morning but when he came to Tangadipara at afternoon, miscreants attacked him with local weapons and vandalised his car to create panic among the BNP men and common people.

After the incident, Iqbal filed complaint with the local returning officer.

Iqbal also alleged that he, along with his supporters, faced obstructions in electioneering since the beginning of electioneering. He also claimed that police filed case against those who were involved BNP politics and even arrested some of them.

Contacted, OC of Gouripur Police Station Abdullah Al Mamun, said none filed any compliant regarding the incident. But he later heard that that villagers had clashed with Iqbal as he had gone there to distribute money.

Meanwhile in Kishoreganj, a local BNP leader died after suffering a cardiac arrest which was apparently triggered by police firing blanks at the residence of BNP's candidate for Kishoreganj-5 Sheikh Mujibur Rahman at Sararchar union under Bajitpur upazila yesterday evening.

The deceased was identified as Shaheed Miah, vice president of Sararchar union unit BNP.

BNP men alleged that Mujibur had held a press conference at noon at his residence where he expressed concerns over his life's security ahead of the polls. Later in the evening, police raided his residence where they fired blanks and beat up BNP men.

At that time, Shaheed Miah was in his nearby office.

Hearing the sound of gun fire and seeing police action on BNP men, Shaheed panicked and went into a cardiac arrest. Then, Shaheed was taken to the local hospital where on-duty doctors declared him dead, said Mazaharul Islam, nephew of Shaheed.

Contacted, Shafiqul Islam, inspector (investigation) of Bajitpur police station, said a clash had erupted between the supporters of AL and BNP and police opened fire to disperse them.

Asked about the death, Shafiqul said he knew nothing about the death.

In Cox's Bazar, at least seven people were injured when police charged baton on the activists of BNP's nominee for Cox's Bazar-3 candidate Lutfor Rahman Kajol in Kurushkul while they were going to attend the last day's election rally yesterday.

Police lobbed two rounds of tear shells and fired several rounds of blanks.

Sources said activists of Kajol were coming from Cox's Bazar city and the adjoining city areas to attend the rally at the tourist city at 3:00 pm.

But police charged baton on them at several places, including Kurushkul connecting road, Kolatoli, Kalur Dokan area and Bus terminal area.

Officer-in-charge of Cox's Bazar Sadar Model Police Station Farid Uddin Khandokar said they were carrying sticks during the procession.

They tried to disperse them when they refused to leave, he said.

In a different sort of incident in Manikganj, BNP candidate for Manikganj-1 Khondaker Abdul Hamid Dablu, whose nomination was declared valid by the High Court on December 24, has been virtually confined to his residence at Pachuria village under Ghiorupazila for the last two days.

Police were maintaining a round the clock presence in front of Dablu's residence and were arresting any BNP activist who came out of his home.

Talking to The Daily Star, Bablu said none of their supporters now come to meet Dablu in fear of arrests. Besides, AL men on motorcycles ride around the residence in intervals to spread panic.

Currently, Dablu has not been able to get out of his house and conduct electioneering, alleged Bablu.

Rifat Rahman Shamim, police superintendent in the district, rejected the allegation and said police had not gone to Dablu's residence.

Meanwhile in Narayanganj, police arrested five of a family, including the parents of a supporter of independent candidate for Narayanganj-3 Abdullah Al Kaiser, from Senpara area under Kanchpur upazila in the early hours of yesterday.

Police claimed that they had recovered drugs and locally-made weapons from the arrestees. The victims' relatives rejected the allegations.

Meanwhile, an Awami League supporter has been beaten to death allegedly by BNP supporters at Nolkot village of Sylhet Sadar upazila under Sylhet-1 constituency yesterday night at around 10:00pm.

The deceased, Koysor Miah, 35, son of Mahmud Ali of the village, is a Kuwait expatriate and had recently returned to Bangladesh.

Badar Uddin Ahmed Kamran, president of Sylhet city AL and the convenor of AL candidate for Sylhet-1's electoral management committee, said, “He, along with some other supporter, went out of his house with the AL candidate's leaflet to distribute in the village and locked into an altercation with some BNP supporters.”

BNP supporters then apparently beat him to death.

Denying the allegation, Ali Ahmed, general secretary of Sylhet district BNP, said that the incident might have been related to an intra-party feud of AL.

SM Shahadat Hossain, officer-in-charge of Jalalabad Police Station, confirmed the incident without naming any accused and said police were looking into the matter.

Besides, police arrested eight BNP-Jamaat men in Mymensingh, two in Chattogram, two in Chapainawabganj and 28 in Sylhet yesterday on different criminal charges.

Since electioneering began on December 10, motorcades, campaign rallies and offices and even houses of at least 56 contestants, mostly from BNP, have been attacked by alleged supporters of AL at different places across the country.

Around 790 BNP-Jamaat men were arrested during the time while 1,175 people, including candidates, were injured from many parties, including the left ones.

The attacks did not even spare the candidates of Jatiya Party and Bikalpa Dhara Bangladesh, both electoral allies of the AL.

There was even no respite from violence even after deployment of army on December 24.

'SITUATION UNDER CONTROL'

Election Commissioner Brig Gen (Retd) Shahadat Hossain Chowdhury yesterday claimed that the situation was under control. “I admit that a bit of tension is prevailing centring the election. I want to term it 'political heat',” he told reporters at the Nirbachan Bhaban.

He also said that armed forces would act only when police, Rapid Action Battalion and Border Guard Bangladesh failed to control any untoward incident during the election.

"There are police, Rab and BGB to maintain law and order. The armed forces will intervene where police, Rab and BGB fail. The armed forces are our last resort," he added. 

Promises of further development work are Awami League contestants' election mantra in Khulna while the BNP candidates are pledging “restoration of democracy”.

BNP aspirants are vocal about freeing party Chairperson Khaleda Zia from jail and giving people “respite from the repressive government”.

They have also promised to “save” the state-owned banks.

Sheikh Salauddin Jewel, AL candidate in Khulna-2 (Sadar and Sonadanga), claimed that his party had carried out massive development work in Khulna.

“Just half a month ago, the Khulna modern railway station was opened, meeting a long-time demand of the people of Khulna,” he told this newspaper.

Jewel promised that if elected, the waterlogging problem in the city would be addressed by recovering grabbed canals. He also promised employment opportunities, war on drugs, and construction and renovation of parks.

Akhteruzzaman Babu, AL candidate in Khulna-6 (Paikgacha-Koyra), said, “Development projects will continue if the people vote AL candidates to power.”

He promised that sustainable dykes would be built to prevent river erosion, a major problem faced by the residents of Paikgacha and Koyra.

AL's Abdus Salam Murshedi in Khulna-4 (Rupsha-Terokhada-Dighalia) promised a hanging bridge over the Bhairab river for smooth journeys from upazilas to Khulna city.

Begum Monnujan Sufian, AL contender in Khulna-3 (Khalishpur-Daulatpur-Khan Jahan Ali), assured implementation of wage commission recommendations for over 24,000 people working in the seven state-owned jute mills in Khulna.

BNP candidate in Khulna-2 Nazrul Islam Monju told The Daily Star that his party had been trying for years to establish people's voting rights and get rid of “autocratic rulers”.

He pledged to eliminate corruption and terrorism and recover “Tk 22,000 crore looted from the state-owned banks”.

BNP aspirant in Khulna-3 Rokibul Islam Bokul said if elected, he would develop Khalishpur and Daulatpur industrial zones to create employment opportunities.

He said he wanted to reopen mills and factories in the area that had been shut down, prioritise the IT sector, ensure medical services and develop roads in his area.

“For youths, I will set up free Wifi zones in parks and other crowded places,” he added.

Azizul Bari Helal, BNP contestant in Khulna-4, said his campaign was focused mainly on getting Khaleda released, restoring democracy, and putting an end to the “misrule of the present government”.

Mia Golam Porwar of Khulna-5 said he was seeking votes with the promises to save people from the “repression of the AL” and harassment like filing of false cases and arbitrary arrests.

The BNP candidate is also highlighting success stories of when he was a lawmaker in the constituency.