Feb 12 • 13:34 UTC 🇫🇷 France France24

Bangladesh elections: Islamist-led coalition hopes for chance at power

Bangladesh's recent elections show a significant rise in support for the Islamist party Jamaat-e-Islami, previously banned under Sheikh Hasina's government, while the opposition party BNP is projected to win amid concerns for minority and women's rights.

Bangladesh has recently conducted its first elections since the student revolution that ousted Sheikh Hasina in 2024, marking a pivotal moment in the country's political landscape. The elections have seen the rise of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), projected to gain significant support, but the most notable development has been the resurgence of the Islamist party Jamaat-e-Islami, which had been banned during Hasina's tenure. This resurgence indicates a shift in voter sentiment and political dynamics, emphasizing a growing desire for change among the electorate.

The political climate in Bangladesh is further complicated by societal issues, particularly the rise in violence against minorities and the targeting of women's rights. Following recent mob violence against minority groups, many individuals are increasingly concerned about their safety and the potential loss of rights. The fears stirred by these events suggest that, while there may be hope for a political shift with the BNP and Jamaat-e-Islami, significant challenges remain regarding the protection of vulnerable populations in the country.

As the election results unfold, the implications of this political shift could affect both domestic policies and Bangladesh's international relations, especially with nations concerned about human rights and democracy. The re-emergence of Jamaat-e-Islami in the political arena raises questions about the direction Bangladesh will take in the coming years, particularly in light of its diverse society and the need for a government that respects and upholds the rights of all citizens.

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