Turbulent Times in Bangladesh: Political Tensions Escalate Ahead of National Elections
Dhaka, September 4, 2024 — Political tensions continue to mount in Bangladesh as the country gears up for its national elections, expected in early 2024. The two dominant political parties, the ruling Awami League (AL) and the opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), are once again locked in a fierce battle for power, with the nation's future at stake. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who has led the country for over a decade under the Awami League banner, is seeking a fourth consecutive term. Her government has been praised for economic growth and infrastructure development, including the much-lauded Padma Bridge. However, accusations of authoritarianism, suppression of dissent, and curtailment of media freedom have overshadowed her achievements. The BNP, led by former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia and her exiled son Tarique Rahman, is pushing for free and fair elections under a neutral caretaker government. The BNP and its allies accuse the Awami League of manipulating previous e...