UN human rights experts expressed alarm about political violence, restrictions on freedom of expression and the rise of religious fundamentalism in Bangladesh ahead of the election, according to a statement issued in Geneva on Thursday.

“In the run-up to the vote, religious minorities, especially Hindus, fear renewed targeting,” said the experts. 

“Unfortunately, these fears have a strong basis,” they said, adding that reports indicate that around 380 members of minority groups have been attacked in the first half of 2018.

Members and supporters of opposition parties have been arrested, killed and disappeared. Reports state that supporters of the ruling party were involved in some of the incidents.

“Even one of the Election Commissioners has expressed the view that he does not believe there is any level playing field at all in this election.

“Urgent action is needed by Bangladeshi authorities during this turbulent time to ensure the safety of all people, and to create an enabling climate for a much-needed public debate.”

The experts' concerns were underscored by an attack on the motorcade of opposition politician Dr Kamal Hossain on December 14. Between December 9 and 12, at least 47 incidents of violence were reported in which eight people were killed and 560 hurt.   

“We urge the authorities to allow for and encourage monitoring of the human rights situation by civil society in the lead up to, during and after the elections.”

The UN experts said they were troubled by reports that the two main political parties have sought to appease or cooperate with fundamentalist groups.

The experts voiced concerns at the use of surveillance, intimidation, and politically motivated prosecution of key opposition members.

“We are particularly concerned at the use of the Digital Security Act to criminalise journalists and anyone using social media freely expressing their views, and at the impact it has on the public's right to know which is of paramount importance in an election context.”

They voiced their fears that the upcoming general elections in Bangladesh may trigger renewed violence against opposition figures and secularists, and attacks against members of religious minorities, their homes, temples and sources of livelihood. “Taken together, recent developments raise serious concerns about whether the elections can be conducted in a free and fair manner.”