God and the Ballot Box: How Electoral Candidates Use Religion in Election Campaign in Bangladesh

Abstract

This study aims to analyze how and why politicians and political parties exploit religion in election campaigns in postmilitary regimes of Bangladesh. In addition, this article explores the sociopolitical implications of employing religion during electoral campaigns. In recent years, religion has played an increasingly important role in Bangladesh politics as political parties have sought to mobilize voters and gain the support of religious leaders and groups. This study uses three theoretical frameworks: rational choice theory, the legitimacy crisis, and identity politics to unveil the reasons for using religious symbols and norms in election campaigns. Through robust content analysis using secondary sources and in-depth interviews, the study argues that political parties use religion not only to overcome legitimacy crises but also to present themselves as the protectors of Islam in Bangladesh. The article also argues that political parties exploit religious tradition to align themselves with Muslim identity politics. Religion in election campaigns has negative consequences in society and politics. It intensifies the contributing factors of political polarization, violence against religious minorities, and undermining democratic credentials. The significance of this study is that it provides a pathway for researching the using religions in voting campaigns in Bangladesh.