Dhaka, In a significant electoral triumph, Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina secured an unprecedented fourth consecutive term as her Awami League dominated the general elections. The preliminary results revealed a resounding victory, with the Awami League securing 200 out of 300 parliamentary seats, signaling a two-thirds majority.
Despite the remarkable victory, the elections were marred by challenges, including sporadic violence and the notable absence of the main opposition, BNP, along with 15 other political parties, who boycotted the polls. The BNP, led by former premier Khaleda Zia, declared the elections as “fake” and initiated a 48-hour nationwide general strike to protest against what they labeled a “fascist government.”
The voter turnout, estimated at around 40%, marked a substantial decrease from the 2018 general election, which recorded over 80% turnout. Despite concerns of violence, Awami League General Secretary Obaidul Quader thanked those who participated, emphasizing the rejection of the opposition’s boycott.
The uniqueness of these elections lies in candidates from the same party running independently, contributing to a perceived lack of voter interest. Former Election Commissioner Brig Gen (retd) Sakhawat Hussain characterized this as a “unique model election,” where the certainty of the results contrasts with uncertainty regarding the opposition bench.
International observers, including three from India, monitored the elections closely, expressing concerns about the repressive environment. The final results are pending, with the election commission awaiting the completion of vote counting.
By PTI,
