Abstract

This paper examines how the introduction of a partisan election in the local government has an effect on local democracy. The paper has been developed based on qualitative content analysis followed by qualitative interviews with representatives and citizens. The study reveals that although Bangladesh’s experience with partisan election is new, some impacts are evident on local democracy in terms of participation, accountability, and responsiveness. The paper argues that a partial reform in the electoral process, neglecting other aspects of it may jeopardize local democracy. Therefore, any reform in the electoral process should encompass all aspects of the electoral process including the institutional arrangement of local bodies, electoral system, legal system, and strengthening of election operating bodies to promote local democracy in developing countries like Bangladesh.

Presenters

Mohammad Shahjahan Chowdhury
Associate Professor, Public Administration, Shahjalal University of Science and Technology, Bangladesh

Details

Presentation Type

Paper Presentation in a Themed Session

Theme

Civic and Political Studies

KEYWORDS

LOCAL GOVERNMENT, PARTISAN ELECTION, REFORM, DEMOCRACY, BANGLADESH

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