In a significant display of solidarity and determination, more than a hundred women gathered in Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh, for a nighttime protest to assert their rights and demand an end to the violence they have faced. This protest comes just days before the legislative elections scheduled for February 12, marking the first elections since the ousting of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in August 2024. The demonstrators highlighted the need for fair representation in the government, pointing out that the number of women candidates put forth by political parties remains alarmingly low.

The protest was organized by local NGOs and associations, with participants holding torches and marching through the streets of Dhaka. They chanted slogans and sang songs to draw attention to their cause, particularly in front of the Parliament. One protester, lawyer Ahsan Chowdhury, remarked on the persistent nature of repression against women, stating that regardless of the government in power, their struggles continue in various forms. The event reflects the increasing activism among Bangladeshi women who are increasingly pushing for their rights and representation in a political landscape that has often marginalized them.

As the elections approach, the call for the protection of women's voices and their rightful place in politics is crucial, especially in light of the violent suppression seen in recent demonstrations. This protest signifies a growing awareness and demand for women's rights within the political process in Bangladesh, emphasizing the urgent need for societal change and recognition of women's contributions to governance. The implications of these movements may influence not only electoral outcomes but also the broader struggle for gender equality in the country.