A new report has revisited Bangladesh’s first parliamentary election held on 7 March 1973, following the adoption of the country’s constitution in December 1972. The election, conducted under the leadership of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s Awami League, resulted in the party winning 293 seats and forming a government without any opposition presence in parliament. Researchers and political analysts cited widespread irregularities and manipulation across the country, including allegations that ballot boxes were flown to Dhaka to ensure the victory of certain candidates.

One of the most controversial cases was in Comilla-9, where Awami League candidate Khandaker Moshtaque Ahmed reportedly won after ballot papers were taken to Dhaka for recounting. Analysts said the ruling party’s dominance left no space for opposition, with several Awami League leaders, including Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, winning uncontested. Contemporary newspapers described the election as a “mockery,” while opposition figures alleged that results in dozens of constituencies were altered through coercion and irregularities.

The 1973 election remains a defining episode in Bangladesh’s political history, marking the beginning of a parliament without an opposition and raising questions about the democratic process in the newly independent nation.