Bangladesh (Monitoring Desk): Polling has officially begun across Bangladesh for the first general elections following the 2024 public movement. These elections are being seen as a crucial test for the country’s democracy.
According to the Election Commission, over 127 million voters are eligible to cast their votes. Thousands of polling stations have been fortified with strict security arrangements. Voting will continue throughout Thursday, while the results are expected on Friday.
These elections are taking place after the resignation of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who stepped down amid public protests in 2024 and moved to India. Her party has been barred from participating in the elections.
Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) leader Tariq Rahman is considered a strong contender for Prime Minister. He is the son of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia and has returned to the country after 17 years of self-imposed exile. Rahman has promised to restore democratic institutions, enforce the rule of law, and improve the economy.
Meanwhile, an 11-party coalition led by Jamaat-e-Islami is also contesting, having gained influence after recent political changes. Some observers, particularly among women and minority communities, have expressed concerns over the coalition’s potential success.
