A senior British MP has warned that the credibility of Bangladesh’s future elections is at risk unless all political parties are allowed to participate freely in the democratic process. In his speech, Mr Blackman reflected on the long-standing relationship between the UK and Bangladesh, recalling British support during Bangladesh’s War of Independence in 1971 under Prime Minister Edward Heath. However, Mr Blackman expressed serious concern about recent political developments in Bangladesh. “If political parties are prevented from standing in elections, democracy itself is placed under question,” he said, warning that boycotts, bans and exclusions ultimately weaken representative governance. Mr Blackman also raised concerns about reports of a proposed referendum that could alter Bangladesh’s constitutional direction.