Mohaiminul Rafi, a 27-year-old aspiring civil servant from Bangladesh, has dedicated years to preparing for the rigorous examinations necessary to secure a position in the country’s civil service. He refers to this endeavor as “the most reliable route to a secure life,” indicative of the high value placed on government jobs in Bangladesh.

As the nation gears up for elections on February 12, amidst a climate of heightened campaigning, political leaders are making bold promises aimed at the nation’s youth, particularly those seeking stable employment. These pledges include cash support and interest-free loans for the unemployed, as well as ambitious job creation goals that resonate deeply with young voters.

Rafi acknowledges that financial assistance would aid those in need, but he emphasizes that a healthy job market driven by merit-based recruitment holds greater importance. His concerns were echoed during the nationwide protests in 2024, which began in response to a job reservation system perceived as inequitable and ultimately led to the removal of then-Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s government.

With Hasina’s Awami League party barred from participating, the political landscape is shaped by a coalition led by the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and the Jamaat-e-Islami, both of which are courting liberal allies, including newly formed parties borne from the protests. As the campaigning gains momentum, candidates are addressing voters’ anxieties around employment, inflation, tax reforms, and the need for an end to corruption.

However, analysts caution that while political promises may address urgent concerns, the feasibility of delivering on such commitments during a period marked by economic challenges remains uncertain. Bangladesh’s growth rate has slowed to approximately 4-5% in recent years, contrasting sharply with the 8% growth before the pandemic. This stagnation has led to prolonged inflation, ultimately affecting the purchasing power of ordinary citizens.

Hossain Zillur Rahman, an economist and executive chairman at the Power and Participation Research Centre, notes that the interim administration, which took charge post-Hasina, has stabilized macroeconomic indicators to some extent. Yet, he criticizes this administration for its lack of engagement with the business community and its failure to address the economic distress faced by households.

As the elections approach, the massive expectations for change leave citizens like Rafi questioning whether the promises of politicians will lead to tangible improvements. Many voters are eager for a restart, hopeful that the upcoming political shift can pave the way for sustainable growth and meaningful reforms. Despite prevailing doubts, the collective participation in the election reflects a vibrant democratic spirit among the Bangladeshi populace.

Both political parties have proposed comprehensive welfare initiatives. The BNP has introduced a “family card” aimed at supporting approximately 4 million households, while Jamaat advocates for a “smart social security card” to streamline access to social services. These pledges cater to the desires for social security and economic empowerment among the electorate.

Rafi, along with countless other youth, understands the necessity of these measures but urges a focus on viability and accountability in the execution of these promises. As the nation stands on the cusp of change, the collective hopes of its people offer a promising outlook for the future, reinforcing the importance of meritocracy and genuine engagement in governance.

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