JOURNAL ARTICLE

Clientelism, Brokers Dominance, and Rigged Election: A Process of Authoritarian Democracy in Bangladesh.

  • Published In: Journal of Asian & African Studies (Sage Publications, Ltd.), 2025, v. 60, n. 1. P. 635 1 of 3

  • Database: Academic Search Ultimate 2 of 3

  • Authored By: Miaji, Muhammad Zahidul Islam; Islam, Md. Nazmul 3 of 3

Abstract

The article examines how clientelism and the rising dominance of brokers in Bangladesh's electoral system have contributed to the country's democratic backsliding and transition toward an authoritarian democracy. It highlights the role of brokers—intermediaries between political patrons and clients—in manipulating elections through vote buying, intimidation, and controlling voter behavior, particularly during the 2014 and 2018 national elections, which were widely criticized for irregularities and rigging. The study details how clientelist networks, supported by state resources and enforced by brokers, undermine free and fair elections and weaken democratic institutions by fostering a culture of fear and dependency. It concludes that these dynamics have entrenched patron–client relations as a central political practice in Bangladesh, facilitating authoritarian control under the guise of democracy.

Additional Information

  • Source:Journal of Asian & African Studies (Sage Publications, Ltd.). 2025/02, Vol. 60, Issue 1, p635
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:Politics and Government
  • Publication Date:2025
  • ISSN:0021-9096
  • DOI:10.1177/00219096231176747
  • Accession Number:182579019
  • Copyright Statement:Copyright of Journal of Asian & African Studies (Sage Publications, Ltd.) is the property of Sage Publications Inc. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites without the copyright holder's express written permission. Additionally, content may not be used with any artificial intelligence tools or machine learning technologies. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

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