Bangladesh, Nov. 23 -- Bangladesh is drifting toward one of the most consequential elections in its history, yet the public conversation is increasingly hijacked by warnings, allegations, and covert maneuvers that cloud the political landscape. The latest spark came from Jamaat-e-Islami emir Dr. Shafiqur Rahman, who cautioned that holding a national referendum on the same day as the election could trigger what he termed “election genocide.” His phrasing—alarming, provocative, and politically charged—reflects more than partisan grievances. It lays bare the fear that a deeply polarized political climate, once again, may turn violent if mishandled.

Dr. Rahmans criticism rests on two core claims. First, that Banglades...