DHAKA: Bangladesh’s twelfth general elections have so far 14 polling stations and two schools getting ablazed, signaling heightened tensions and security concerns.
The main Opposition, Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), led by former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, has boycotted the elections, citing doubts about fairness and credibility under the incumbent Sheikh Hasina government. The BNP’s call for a strike comes despite the deployment of armed forces to maintain law and order during the elections. Security arrangements, including armed forces stationed at critical points, aim to ensure a smooth voting process for the 11.96 crore registered voters in over 42,000 polling stations.
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However, incidents of arson targeting schools designated as polling centers and polling stations have raised concerns about the integrity of the electoral process. The BNP has demanded a United Nations-supervised investigation into a train fire incident, labeling it a pre-planned act of sabotage ahead of the polls.
A report from the International Crisis Group emphasizes Bangladesh’s critical juncture, noting discontent and political deadlock. As the country approaches its third election without a credible alternative, political observers anticipate Sheikh Hasina’s ruling Awami League to secure a fourth consecutive victory, with potential implications for political stability and public dissatisfaction.
