Bangladesh’s Prime Minister, Sheikh Hasina, has clinched a fifth term, securing three-quarters of parliamentary seats in an election marred by the opposition’s boycott, labeling it “illegitimate.” Despite accusations of human rights abuses, Hasina’s economic model receives praise.
Hasina, outlining her priorities for the next five years, emphasizes the economic advancement of Bangladesh. She hails the innate intelligence of the people and aims to train the younger generation for the future, setting a target to develop the country by 2041 with a focus on a smart population, government, economy, and society.
The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) boycotted the polls, alleging Hasina’s reluctance to resign for a neutral authority to oversee the election. Hasina addresses this, stating that the absence of one party does not imply the absence of democracy.
Regarding relations with India, Hasina acknowledges India as a great friend, citing past support during the 1971 and 1975 periods. She emphasizes the resolution of bilateral issues and appreciates the robust relationship with India.