Bangladesh votes in first general election since bloody ousting of Sheikh Hasina
Bangladesh is holding its first general election since 2024, following the ousting of Sheikh Hasina amid widespread protests.
Bangladesh is set to conduct its general election for the first time since the government fell in 2024 due to significant civil unrest. This election features a contest between the Bangladesh Nationalist Party and the Islamist party Jamaat-e-Islami, marking an important political shift in the country. Over 127 million citizens are eligible to cast their votes, reflecting a critical moment in Bangladesh's democratic process after years of political instability.
The upheaval leading to this election was characterized by massive protests, particularly led by younger demographics often referred to as the 'Gen Z uprising.' The protests resulted in the ousting of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who has since been sentenced to death in absentia for alleged crimes against humanity during the unrest. Her political party, the Awami League, has been prohibited from participating in this election, further complicating the political landscape in the country.
As Bangladesh navigates this crucial election, the implications are significant not only for the country's immediate political future but also for its standing in the international community. Observers will be watching closely as to whether this election can pave the way for a more stable and inclusive governance or if it will lead to further turmoil and division among the populace.