DHAKA – In a contentious election marked by a crackdown on opposition and a low voter turnout, Bangladesh’s Prime Minister, Sheikh Hasina Wajed, secured her fifth term, extending her rule.
According to reports from Bengali media, Hasina secured 216 out of 299 seats, while independent candidates obtained 52 seats, and the Jatiya Party secured 11 seats. The controversial election, with approximately 40% voter turnout, was marred by incidents of violence, including arson attacks.
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The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), the main opposition party, rejected the election results, accusing Hasina of establishing a totalitarian state and suppressing dissent. The long-standing rivalry between Hasina’s party and the BNP, led by former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, has intensified recently, causing polarization in politics.
The credibility of the recent elections was called into question due to the lack of major challengers. Additionally, concerns were raised as at least 20,000 members of the BNP are reportedly in jail on various charges. The government, however, dismissed these claims as politically motivated.
Despite facing rejection from the people and political rivals, Hasina reiterated her commitment to democracy and development. The 76-year-old leader has been the decisive victor since returning to power in 2009, with two subsequent controversial polls and accusations of rigging.
