Allies among Enemies: Political authority and party (dis)loyalty in Bangladesh

Abstract The authority of political leaders in Bangladesh rests on diverse qualities, not least which are the muscle and finance they can mobilize, relationships craft with senior party members. These utilized to confront rivals both within outside their own party. In some instances, intensity intra-party competition be so severe that a further quality emerges: capacity find allies among enemies. Building local inter-party alliances bolster politicians, yet detriment coherence. This argument is developed through an analysis mayoral parliamentary elections held past decade small Bangladeshi city, where ruling member parliament (MP) opposition mayor appear have such relationship. has thwarted electoral ambitions fellow members posed serious challenge discipline. While often seen as being either inter- or intra-party, here it focused around alliances. portrayal suggests we need give greater emphasis decentralized character take Bangladesh.