The Awami League politician Anowara Islam Rani, a transgender individual from Bangladesh's northern region, has etched her name in history by becoming the first candidate of their gender to enter electoral politics. This significant stride towards inclusivity is unfolding in the Rangpur-3 constituency of the country's northern region, in a significant moment of change amid accusations of polls being disputed — a claim denounced by PM Sheikh Hasina's cabinet colleagues in their exclusive interviews with WION.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/elections-will-be-free-fair-transparent-and-credible-bangladesh-fm-momen-tells-wion-677140">Elections will be free, fair, transparent and credible, Bangladesh FM Momen tells WION</a>

If elected, Rani could be South Asia's first transgender Member of Parliament. There have been transgender members of state legislative assemblies in India but not members of parliament so far in the subcontinent.

Also watch |&nbsp;Bangladesh Election 2024: Does this election matter?

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Rani's candidacy, first reported by BNN Breaking, an independent news network in Bangladesh, is being recognised as a symbol of resilience and transformation.

<h2>What does it mean amid BNP's boycott?</h2>

With a notable 849 registered transgender voters, Rani's presence in the Rangpur-3 constituency reflects the evolving political landscape of Bangladesh where the main opposition party,&nbsp;Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has boycotted the polls.

The party has initiated a 48-hour nationwide strike against what they deem an "illegal government."

The BNP's primary demand for an interim non-party neutral government to oversee the election was rejected by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who also serves as the chairman of the ruling Awami League.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-capitals-can-sheikh-hasina-sail-through-stormy-season-of-dhaka-politics-655462">The Capitals: Can Sheikh Hasina sail through stormy season of Dhaka politics?</a><img alt="Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina | Reuters" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2860%29_1.png" /> 
Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina | Reuters 
 
To maintain peace and order during the electoral process, over 800,000 law enforcement personnel, including army troops, have been deployed. Additionally, 3,000 executive and judicial magistrates are working concurrently to ensure the smooth conduct of the elections.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladeshs-ib-minister-mahmud-concerns-over-violence-yet-festive-election-atmosphere-677254">Bangladesh’s I&amp;B Minister Mahmud to WION: Concerns over violence, yet festive election atmosphere</a>

More than 119 million registered voters are deciding the fate of over 2,000 candidates in the fray for the 12th Jatiya Sangsad election. &nbsp;

<h2>Bangladesh's first transgender candidate: What is the bottom line?</h2>

Since its formation in 1971, Anowara Islam Rani's candidacy stands as a testament to Bangladesh's&nbsp;ongoing evolution of the country's democratic process, having overcome&nbsp;decades of coups, countercoups, and assassinations.

The Awami League politician Anowara Islam Rani, a transgender individual from Bangladesh's northern region, has etched her name in history by becoming the first candidate of their gender to enter electoral politics.

The Awami League politician Anowara Islam Rani, a transgender individual from Bangladesh's northern region, has etched her name in history by becoming the first candidate of their gender to enter electoral politics. This significant stride towards inclusivity is unfolding in the Rangpur-3 constituency of the country's northern region, in a significant moment of change amid accusations of polls being disputed — a claim denounced by PM Sheikh Hasina's cabinet colleagues in their exclusive interviews with WION. Also read | Elections will be free, fair, transparent and credible, Bangladesh FM Momen tells WION If elected, Rani could be South Asia's first transgender Member of Parliament. There have been transgender members of state legislative assemblies in India but not members of parliament so far in the subcontinent. Also watch | Bangladesh Election 2024: Does this election matter? × Rani's candidacy, first reported by BNN Breaking, an independent news network in Bangladesh, is being recognised as a symbol of resilience and transformation. What does it mean amid BNP's boycott? With a notable 849 registered transgender voters, Rani's presence in the Rangpur-3 constituency reflects the evolving political landscape of Bangladesh where the main opposition party, Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has boycotted the polls. The party has initiated a 48-hour nationwide strike against what they deem an "illegal government." The BNP's primary demand for an interim non-party neutral government to oversee the election was rejected by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who also serves as the chairman of the ruling Awami League. Also read | The Capitals: Can Sheikh Hasina sail through stormy season of Dhaka politics? Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina | Reuters To maintain peace and order during the electoral process, over 800,000 law enforcement personnel, including army troops, have been deployed. Additionally, 3,000 executive and judicial magistrates are working concurrently to ensure the smooth conduct of the elections. Also read | Bangladesh’s I&B Minister Mahmud to WION: Concerns over violence, yet festive election atmosphere More than 119 million registered voters are deciding the fate of over 2,000 candidates in the fray for the 12th Jatiya Sangsad election. Bangladesh's first transgender candidate: What is the bottom line? Since its formation in 1971, Anowara Islam Rani's candidacy stands as a testament to Bangladesh's ongoing evolution of the country's democratic process, having overcome decades of coups, countercoups, and assassinations.

In Anowara Islam Rani, Bangladesh could elect South Asia's first-ever transgender Member of Parliament

The first four hours of voting in the Bangladesh's 12th parliamentary elections saw a voter turnout of 18.50 per cent. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is set to secure a fourth straight term in office following a boycott led by the country's key opposition party, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP).

Bangladesh General Elections: 18.5% voter turnout recorder till noon

The Election Commission (EC) reported irregularities and chaos in 37 polling centres across the country Bangladesh during the voting on Sunday. Eight people have been detained in connection with the incidents.

Bangladesh General Elections: Irregularities reported in 37 polling stations, 8 detained

Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) led by former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia has boycotted the ongoing 12th parliamentary elections, after PM Sheikh Hasina denied its demand to resign and let a caretaker government run the election. Meanwhile, multiple reports of violence emerge. Watch to know more!

Bangladesh General Elections: PM Sheikh Hasina expected to get another term

Bangladesh's Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina cast her vote immediately after the polling began at City College in the capital city Dhaka. PM Sheikh Hasina is set to win a fourth straight term and the fifth overall for her Awami League-led alliance as the main opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) boycotted the polls.

Bangladesh General Elections: PM Sheikh Hasina casts her vote as polling is underway

Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) led by former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia has boycotted the ongoing 12th parliamentary elections, after PM Sheikh Hasina denied its demand to resign and let a caretaker government run the election.

Bangladesh General Elections: Opposition BNP and allies parties boycott polls

Bangladesh police, garment workers clash during protest over low wages. Garment workers sacked after wage protests. The garment industry slowdown is key risk for Bangladesh. Watch the video to know more!

Explained: Bangladesh's garment workers strike

Sheikh Hasina's main opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party- BNP has boycotted the general elections. For the past few months, the protests against Prime Minister Hasina have intensified. Against the backdrop of violence and crackdowns, what's the significance of this election? Is it turning into a one-woman show?

Bangladesh Elections: What's at stake? | Inside South Asia

Bangladesh is all set for its General Elections on the 7th of January. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is seeking her fourth term in a row. Take a look at the story of Bangladesh & the battle of two begums. Watch the video to know more!

Bangladesh: Story of two women in politics | Bangladesh 2024 Elections

Bangladesh's Information &amp; Broadcasting Minister Muhammad Hasan Mahmud expressed concerns about pre-election violence but noted the prevailing positive mood. Speaking to WION's diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal exclusively, he highlighted, "BNP and Jamaat e-Islami have been trying, and doing violence and they are carrying out arson attacks on the people, on vehicles and trains," and mentioned the major incident of violence involving the torching of the Benapole Express ahead of the general elections on Sunday.

Mahmud anticipates a festive atmosphere with a massive voter turnout, stating, "elections will take place tomorrow, and huge voter turnout is expected and people will cast their votes in festive mode" He responded to the US's call for free and fair elections, pointing out, "They will see tomorrow; it will be free, fair, transparent, and a huge participation of the people will take place in the election tomorrow." He is also the Joint Secretary of the ruling Bangladesh Awami League.

Sidhant Sibal: So how do you see the preparations for the elections tomorrow and do you foresee violence?

Muhammad Hasan Mahmud: Look, elections are a festivity in Bangladesh, also in India, and a very festive mood has been created over the last few weeks in Bangladesh. And people are very enthusiastic and people are eagerly waiting to cast their vote because voting is their right. So people are eagerly waiting. And all the preparation has been done by the election commission. And the government has provided all the support to the election commission. The Election Commission is very strong, is handling everything very strongly, efficiently and done so far, they have shown better muscle than any other election commission in the past in Bangladesh. And people are in a festive mood. I am in my constituency now and in the village, people are gathered and waiting to cast their vote.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/elections-will-be-free-fair-transparent-and-credible-bangladesh-fm-momen-tells-wion-677140">Elections will be free, fair, transparent and credible, Bangladesh FM Momen tells WION</a>

Sidhant Sibal: But do you see violence?

Muhammad Hasan Mahmud: Since October 28, BNP and Jamaat e Islami have been trying, and doing violence and they are carrying out arson attacks on the people, on vehicles and trains. You know last night on a train, the train that was coming from the Indian border to Dhaka they carried out an attack, people were killed. All this done by BNP, Jamaat, the festivity for the election has been diminished. People are not fearful. They're trying. They will try tonight and tomorrow. So they were trying, but they didn't have the capacity to do the same as in 2013, 2014, 2015. Elections will take place tomorrow, and huge voter turnout is expected and people will cast their votes in festive mode.

Sidhant Sibal: You have seen comments by the US, calling for free and fair elections, how do you see these comments?

Muhammad Hasan Mahmud: In Bangladesh, the election tomorrow will be free, fair, transparent, participatory I mean participation, huge participation by the people. So America and others and whoever they will see tomorrow, it will be free, fair, transparent, and huge participation of the people will take place in the election tomorrow.

Bangladesh's Information & Broadcasting Minister Muhammad Hasan Mahmud expressed concerns about pre-election violence but noted the prevailing positive mood. Speaking to WION's diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal exclusively, he highlighted, "BNP and Jamaat e-Islami have been trying, and doing violence and they are carrying out arson attacks on the people, on vehicles and trains," and mentioned the major incident of violence involving the torching of the Benapole Express ahead of the general elections on Sunday.

Bangladesh's Information & Broadcasting Minister Muhammad Hasan Mahmud expressed concerns about pre-election violence but noted the prevailing positive mood. Speaking to WION's diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal exclusively, he highlighted, "BNP and Jamaat e-Islami have been trying, and doing violence and they are carrying out arson attacks on the people, on vehicles and trains," and mentioned the major incident of violence involving the torching of the Benapole Express ahead of the general elections on Sunday. Mahmud anticipates a festive atmosphere with a massive voter turnout, stating, "elections will take place tomorrow, and huge voter turnout is expected and people will cast their votes in festive mode" He responded to the US's call for free and fair elections, pointing out, "They will see tomorrow; it will be free, fair, transparent, and a huge participation of the people will take place in the election tomorrow." He is also the Joint Secretary of the ruling Bangladesh Awami League. Sidhant Sibal: So how do you see the preparations for the elections tomorrow and do you foresee violence? Muhammad Hasan Mahmud: Look, elections are a festivity in Bangladesh, also in India, and a very festive mood has been created over the last few weeks in Bangladesh. And people are very enthusiastic and people are eagerly waiting to cast their vote because voting is their right. So people are eagerly waiting. And all the preparation has been done by the election commission. And the government has provided all the support to the election commission. The Election Commission is very strong, is handling everything very strongly, efficiently and done so far, they have shown better muscle than any other election commission in the past in Bangladesh. And people are in a festive mood. I am in my constituency now and in the village, people are gathered and waiting to cast their vote. Also read: Elections will be free, fair, transparent and credible, Bangladesh FM Momen tells WION Sidhant Sibal: But do you see violence? Muhammad Hasan Mahmud: Since October 28, BNP and Jamaat e Islami have been trying, and doing violence and they are carrying out arson attacks on the people, on vehicles and trains. You know last night on a train, the train that was coming from the Indian border to Dhaka they carried out an attack, people were killed. All this done by BNP, Jamaat, the festivity for the election has been diminished. People are not fearful. They're trying. They will try tonight and tomorrow. So they were trying, but they didn't have the capacity to do the same as in 2013, 2014, 2015. Elections will take place tomorrow, and huge voter turnout is expected and people will cast their votes in festive mode. Sidhant Sibal: You have seen comments by the US, calling for free and fair elections, how do you see these comments? Muhammad Hasan Mahmud: In Bangladesh, the election tomorrow will be free, fair, transparent, participatory I mean participation, huge participation by the people. So America and others and whoever they will see tomorrow, it will be free, fair, transparent, and huge participation of the people will take place in the election tomorrow.

Bangladesh’s I&B Minister Mahmud: Concerns over violence, yet festive election atmosphere

Bangladesh is poised for a general election as Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina eyes her fourth consecutive term, the fifth overall for her Awami League-led alliance. With almost 170 million people ready to cast their votes, the election promises to be a defining event in the country's political landscape.

Bangladesh gears up for general election amidst pre-election violence

Bangladesh gears up for General Elections, officials distribute poll materials

Bangladesh police on Saturday arrested seven opposition party members blamed for an alleged pre-election arson attack on a packed commuter train that killed four people and injured another eight.

Bangladesh police arrest opposition members over train fire

Bangladesh Foreign Minister Dr AK Abdul Momen condemned the Benapole Express arson calling it an "unforgivable crime against humanity". Four people, including two children, died and many more were injured in the incident.

Bangladesh: 5 killed in Bangladesh train fire, police suspect arson ahead of polls

A passenger train in Bangladesh caught fire on Friday (Jan 5), claiming the lives of at least five people in an alleged arson attack ahead of the national elections. At least four coaches of the train caught fire on the Benapole Express at the time it was arriving in the capital city of Dhaka from Jessore, said fire service officer Rakjibul Hasan.

"We have recovered five bodies," police commander Khandaker Al Moin told reporters.&nbsp;

The incident took place at Gopibagh, which is an old part of Dhaka and is close to the megacity's primary rail terminal, according to the witnesses.

An unnamed rescuer told private broadcaster Somoy TV that hundreds of people had immediately rushed to pull out the ones trapped inside the burning train.

"We rescued many. But the fire spread quickly," he said.

According to Somoy TV, some Indians were also onboard the train.

Police chief Anwar Hossain, without giving much details about the incident told news agency AFP that the fire incident was an "act of sabotage".

"We suspect the fire incident was an act of sabotage," Hossain said.

In the month of December, the police and the government condemned the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) for another train fire which killed four people.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-pm-hasina-likely-to-secure-4th-term-as-opposition-boycott-takes-sting-out-of-polls-676970">Bangladesh: PM Hasina likely to secure 4th term as opposition boycott takes sting out of polls</a>

The BNP had at that time rebuffed the accusations and denied involvement in the incident.

It had stated that the government was unfairly putting the blame on it as an excuse to crack down on opposition parties.

Bangladesh is set to go into polls on Sunday (Jan 7) however, the BNP and other opposition parties have boycotted the national elections dubbing it as a "sham" vote.

Late&nbsp;year, thousands of opposition activists were&nbsp;arrested after they staged a demonstration demanding the arrest of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

A passenger train in Bangladesh caught fire on Friday (Jan 5), claiming the lives of at least five people in an alleged arson attack ahead of the national elections.

A passenger train in Bangladesh caught fire on Friday (Jan 5), claiming the lives of at least five people in an alleged arson attack ahead of the national elections. At least four coaches of the train caught fire on the Benapole Express at the time it was arriving in the capital city of Dhaka from Jessore, said fire service officer Rakjibul Hasan. "We have recovered five bodies," police commander Khandaker Al Moin told reporters. The incident took place at Gopibagh, which is an old part of Dhaka and is close to the megacity's primary rail terminal, according to the witnesses. An unnamed rescuer told private broadcaster Somoy TV that hundreds of people had immediately rushed to pull out the ones trapped inside the burning train. "We rescued many. But the fire spread quickly," he said. According to Somoy TV, some Indians were also onboard the train. Police chief Anwar Hossain, without giving much details about the incident told news agency AFP that the fire incident was an "act of sabotage". "We suspect the fire incident was an act of sabotage," Hossain said. In the month of December, the police and the government condemned the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) for another train fire which killed four people. Also read: Bangladesh: PM Hasina likely to secure 4th term as opposition boycott takes sting out of polls The BNP had at that time rebuffed the accusations and denied involvement in the incident. It had stated that the government was unfairly putting the blame on it as an excuse to crack down on opposition parties. Bangladesh is set to go into polls on Sunday (Jan 7) however, the BNP and other opposition parties have boycotted the national elections dubbing it as a "sham" vote. Late year, thousands of opposition activists were arrested after they staged a demonstration demanding the arrest of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. (With inputs from agencies)

Five killed as passenger train in Bangladesh catches fire, police suspect arson

Ananya Dutta sits down with Bangladesh's Foreign Secretary Masud Bin Momen as rigging allegations mount against the ruling government. Ambassador Momen also talks about relations with the US amid heavy criticism.

Bangladesh's Foreign Secretary Momen speaks to WION as allegations mount against ruling government

Utility poles across Bangladesh are festooned with campaign flyers carrying pictures of general election candidates, most of them from the ruling party, as an opposition boycott looks set to usher Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to a fourth straight term.

Rights groups warn the country of 170 million is heading for virtual one-party rule, after the boycott by the main opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), though Western nations, key clients of its garment industry, have urged free elections.

On walls in Dhaka, the capital, slogans painted in red and blue exhorted voters to pick "Once again, Sheikh Hasina" and "Vote for the boat", the symbol of her Awami League party, before campaigning wraps up on Friday.

Watch | Bangladesh's Foreign Secretary Momen speaks to WION as allegations mount against ruling government

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With the ballot outcome all but assured, however, some voters see little reason to turn out.

"My whole family are hardcore Awami League supporters," said school teacher Shayed Uz Zaman, adding that they planned to make use of Sunday's voting day holiday to visit their village in Kushtia, a district about 200 km (125 miles) from Dhaka.

"But there's no charm in voting this time. I know she is staying in power," she added.

Sunday is usually a working day in mainly Muslim Bangladesh.

Another Awami League supporter, Minoti Rosario, who runs a grocery shop, said she felt her vote barely mattered as the "ruling party is winning anyway".

Votes in the South Asian nation's 12th general election since gaining independence from Pakistan in 1971 are expected to be counted on Sunday evening, with results due early on Monday.

About 120 million registered voters will choose 300 members of parliament in the vote, one of the world's largest such exercises this year. Women make up almost half of voters, while those casting a ballot for the first time number 15 million.

The BNP is not contesting because Hasina refused to accept its demand to cede power to a caretaker government to run the poll.

Troops have fanned out across Bangladesh to guard the polls, in addition to nearly 7,50,000 police officers, paramilitary and police auxiliaries. Police stepped up arrests of BNP leaders and workers after deadly protests in late October.

The risk of political violence was high, despite low expectations for voter turnout, said the International Crisis Group, an independent think tank.

"The election will not resolve Bangladesh's political crisis," said Pierre Prakash, its Asia director. "Since the 2008 election that brought the Awami League to power, the country has not held a credible national election."

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/is-sheikh-hasina-using-father-mujibur-rahman-to-keep-her-grip-over-bangladesh-politics-676540">Sheikh Hasina using father Mujibur Rahman to keep grip over Bangladesh politics?</a>

In her last 15 years in power, Hasina, 76, has been credited with turning around the economy and the garment industry.

But critics have also accused her of authoritarianism, human rights violations, crackdowns on free speech and suppression of dissent, with some of them being jailed.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-nobel-peace-laureate-muhammad-yunus-convicted-of-violating-labour-laws-675599">Bangladesh: Nobel peace laureate Muhammad Yunus convicted of violating labour laws</a>

Her main rival and two-time premier, BNP leader Khaleda Zia, is effectively under house arrest on graft charges the opposition says have been trumped-up.

Khaleda's son, Tarique Rahman, is the acting chairperson of the party, but he is in exile after several charges were brought against him that he denies.

The economy has also slowed sharply since the Russia-Ukraine war boosted prices of fuel and food imports, forcing Bangladesh to turn to the International Monetary Fund for a bailout of $4.7 billion last year.

Utility poles across Bangladesh are festooned with campaign flyers carrying pictures of general election candidates, most of them from the ruling party, as an opposition boycott looks set to usher Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to a fourth straight term.

Utility poles across Bangladesh are festooned with campaign flyers carrying pictures of general election candidates, most of them from the ruling party, as an opposition boycott looks set to usher Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to a fourth straight term. Rights groups warn the country of 170 million is heading for virtual one-party rule, after the boycott by the main opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), though Western nations, key clients of its garment industry, have urged free elections. On walls in Dhaka, the capital, slogans painted in red and blue exhorted voters to pick "Once again, Sheikh Hasina" and "Vote for the boat", the symbol of her Awami League party, before campaigning wraps up on Friday. Watch | Bangladesh's Foreign Secretary Momen speaks to WION as allegations mount against ruling government × With the ballot outcome all but assured, however, some voters see little reason to turn out. "My whole family are hardcore Awami League supporters," said school teacher Shayed Uz Zaman, adding that they planned to make use of Sunday's voting day holiday to visit their village in Kushtia, a district about 200 km (125 miles) from Dhaka. "But there's no charm in voting this time. I know she is staying in power," she added. Sunday is usually a working day in mainly Muslim Bangladesh. Another Awami League supporter, Minoti Rosario, who runs a grocery shop, said she felt her vote barely mattered as the "ruling party is winning anyway". Votes in the South Asian nation's 12th general election since gaining independence from Pakistan in 1971 are expected to be counted on Sunday evening, with results due early on Monday. About 120 million registered voters will choose 300 members of parliament in the vote, one of the world's largest such exercises this year. Women make up almost half of voters, while those casting a ballot for the first time number 15 million. The BNP is not contesting because Hasina refused to accept its demand to cede power to a caretaker government to run the poll. Troops have fanned out across Bangladesh to guard the polls, in addition to nearly 7,50,000 police officers, paramilitary and police auxiliaries. Police stepped up arrests of BNP leaders and workers after deadly protests in late October. The risk of political violence was high, despite low expectations for voter turnout, said the International Crisis Group, an independent think tank. "The election will not resolve Bangladesh's political crisis," said Pierre Prakash, its Asia director. "Since the 2008 election that brought the Awami League to power, the country has not held a credible national election." Also Read | Sheikh Hasina using father Mujibur Rahman to keep grip over Bangladesh politics? In her last 15 years in power, Hasina, 76, has been credited with turning around the economy and the garment industry. But critics have also accused her of authoritarianism, human rights violations, crackdowns on free speech and suppression of dissent, with some of them being jailed. Also Read | Bangladesh: Nobel peace laureate Muhammad Yunus convicted of violating labour laws Her main rival and two-time premier, BNP leader Khaleda Zia, is effectively under house arrest on graft charges the opposition says have been trumped-up. Khaleda's son, Tarique Rahman, is the acting chairperson of the party, but he is in exile after several charges were brought against him that he denies. The economy has also slowed sharply since the Russia-Ukraine war boosted prices of fuel and food imports, forcing Bangladesh to turn to the International Monetary Fund for a bailout of $4.7 billion last year.

Bangladesh: PM Hasina likely to secure 4th term as opposition boycott takes sting out of polls

WION's Race To Power introduces a new segment, Power Poll. You will vote on the biggest election story and we will analyse your views. Get on our social media accounts and start voting!

WION's Power Poll: Do you think the 2024 Bangladesh Election will be free & fair?

Bangladesh's elections are being seen as 'polls never seen before'. The ruling government has been accused of rigging, the opposition has decided to boycott and the voters have been left confused. Amid political uncertainty, the top concern of the common man remains the cost of living crisis & inflation.

What do voters want in Bangladesh?

'Opposition's boycott is not our fault', Bangladesh's Foreign Secy says to WION

With the campaign heating up and election dates approaching, let's take a quick look at Bangladesh's current PM Sheikh Hasina, her evolution through the years and what it indicates for her future during elections in Bangladesh.

Bangladesh Politics Explainer: Sheikh Hasina's political journey

India anxious for status quo in Bangladesh elections as China holds ‘advantageous position’ regardless of outcome. Bangladesh is seen as India’s only reliable strategic partner in South Asia and as such, New Delhi wants PM Sheikh Hasina to retain power. China is unlikely to be affected by any electoral outcome in Bangladesh as it seeks to expand its sway in Dhaka, an analyst say.

What India has to gain & lose if Sheikh Hasina retains power in Bangladesh

Muhammad Yunus, Bangladesh's lone Nobel prize winner is accused of failing to create a worker's welfare fund. The Nobel prize winner was accused of corruption. Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina accused Yunus of 'sucking blood' from the poor. Watch the video to get more insights!

Banladesh court sentences Nobel Prize winner Muhammad Yunus to 6 months in jail | World News | WION

Muhammad Yunus, Bangladesh's lone Nobel prize winner is accused of failing to create a worker's welfare fund. The Nobel prize winner was accused of corruption. Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina accused Yunus of 'sucking blood' from the poor. What the video to get more insights!

Bangladesh court sentences Muhammad Yunus of violating labour laws

Muhammad Yunus, a Nobel peace laureate, was convicted on Monday (Jan 1) of violating Bangladesh's labour laws, news agency AFP reported citing a prosecutor.&nbsp;

Prosecutor Khurshid Alam Khan told AFP, "Professor Yunus and three of his Grameen Telecom colleagues were convicted under labour laws and sentenced to six months in simple imprisonment". Khan added that all four were immediately granted bail pending appeals.&nbsp;

The 83-year-old Yunus and his Grameen Bank won the 2006 Nobel peace prize for their work to lift millions out of poverty by granting tiny loans of under $100 to the rural poor of Bangladesh. He pioneered a global movement, which is now known as microcredit.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-begins-preparing-ground-for-potential-arrest-warrant-against-xi-jinping-heres-how-675575">Taiwan begins preparing ground for potential arrest warrant against Xi Jinping. Here's how</a>&nbsp;

However, he was accused by the Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina of "sucking blood from the poor".&nbsp;

Yunus and his colleagues from Grameen Telecom, one of his companies, were accused of breaking labour regulations when they neglected to establish a workers' benefit fund. But all four of them have denied charges.&nbsp;

Supporters of Yunus called the move politically motivated. They say that the government is attempting to discredit him because he once considered setting up a political party to rival Hasina's Awami League. Dozens of people staged a small rally in support of Yunus outside the court.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/africa-brazil-take-steps-to-halt-donkey-trade-dealing-supply-blow-to-chinese-ejiao-medicine-675578">Africa, Brazil take steps to halt donkey trade, dealing supply blow to Chinese ejiao medicine</a>&nbsp;

Yunus told reporters after the hearing: "I have been punished for a crime that I haven't committed. If you want to call it justice, you can."

The Nobel laureate is facing more than 100 other charges over labour law violations and alleged graft. He told reporters after one of the hearings last month that he had not profited from any of the more than 50 social business firms he had set up in Bangladesh.

"They were not for my personal benefit," Yunus said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Muhammad Yunus, a Nobel peace laureate, was convicted on Monday (Jan 1) of violating Bangladesh's labour laws, news agency AFP reported citing a prosecutor. Prosecutor Khurshid Alam Khan told AFP, "Professor Yunus and three of his Grameen Telecom colleagues were convicted under labour laws and sentenced to six months in simple imprisonment".

Muhammad Yunus, a Nobel peace laureate, was convicted on Monday (Jan 1) of violating Bangladesh's labour laws, news agency AFP reported citing a prosecutor. Prosecutor Khurshid Alam Khan told AFP, "Professor Yunus and three of his Grameen Telecom colleagues were convicted under labour laws and sentenced to six months in simple imprisonment". Khan added that all four were immediately granted bail pending appeals. The 83-year-old Yunus and his Grameen Bank won the 2006 Nobel peace prize for their work to lift millions out of poverty by granting tiny loans of under $100 to the rural poor of Bangladesh. He pioneered a global movement, which is now known as microcredit. Also read: Taiwan begins preparing ground for potential arrest warrant against Xi Jinping. Here's how However, he was accused by the Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina of "sucking blood from the poor". Yunus and his colleagues from Grameen Telecom, one of his companies, were accused of breaking labour regulations when they neglected to establish a workers' benefit fund. But all four of them have denied charges. Supporters of Yunus called the move politically motivated. They say that the government is attempting to discredit him because he once considered setting up a political party to rival Hasina's Awami League. Dozens of people staged a small rally in support of Yunus outside the court. Also read: Africa, Brazil take steps to halt donkey trade, dealing supply blow to Chinese ejiao medicine Yunus told reporters after the hearing: "I have been punished for a crime that I haven't committed. If you want to call it justice, you can." The Nobel laureate is facing more than 100 other charges over labour law violations and alleged graft. He told reporters after one of the hearings last month that he had not profited from any of the more than 50 social business firms he had set up in Bangladesh. "They were not for my personal benefit," Yunus said. (With inputs from agencies)

Bangladesh: Nobel peace laureate Muhammad Yunus convicted of violating labour laws

Ahead of the January 7&nbsp;elections, Bangladesh's ruling party, the Awami League, has released a comprehensive 108-page election manifesto which reinforces the party's commitment to strengthen ties with India and expand cooperation on various fronts. The manifesto, unveiled by the Sheikh Hasina government, outlines the continuation of policies to "cooperate with India" in areas such as cross-border connectivity, transit, energy partnerships, and equitable water sharing.

The manifesto explicitly states, "the Government will continue bilateral trade and security cooperation with India," reflecting the positive engagement between Bangladesh and India in recent years. Joint projects, including an oil pipeline and India's use of Bangladesh ports, underscore the collaborative efforts between the two nations.

Notably, the document goes beyond regional partnerships, expressing a commitment to open new avenues of cooperation with India, Bhutan, and Nepal for hydropower generation and joint management of common river basins. Key foreign policy achievements, such as "resolving long-standing issues with India through demarcation of land boundaries and exchanging enclaves", are highlighted as cornerstones of the government's successful tenure. It said this has helped in encouraging "continued multilateral cooperation and friendly relations with India". The manifesto recognises the settlement of maritime boundaries with Myanmar and India as significant accomplishments, unlocking immense potential for the blue economy.

In a global context, the Awami League aims to build a "strong friendship" with Russia to expand the energy sector. Regarding ties with China, the manifesto declares Dhaka's willingness to "strengthen relations... in terms of development financing." The party envisions strengthening relations with ASEAN countries and developing better and closer ties with Australia and Pacific nations.

It reaffirms a commitment to "strengthen and diversify development cooperation" with&nbsp;the United States, the United Kingdom, the European Union, Japan, and Canada. The document reiterates the government's "determination" to prevent the presence of militant, international terrorists, and separatist groups within its territory.&nbsp;

Among the manifesto's listed achievements, the ruling party proudly highlights Bangladesh's active participation in ten global peacekeeping missions, deploying over 7000 peacekeepers. The manifesto positions this as a "manifestation of Bangladesh's significant contribution to international peace and security." The document also underscores the publication of the Indo-Pacific framework in April 2023, aimed at "promoting open, peaceful, secure, inclusive, equitable prosperity for all".

&nbsp;

Ahead of the January 7 elections, Bangladesh's ruling party, the Awami League, has released a comprehensive 108-page election manifesto which reinforces the party's commitment to strengthen ties with India and expand cooperation on various fronts.

Ahead of the January 7 elections, Bangladesh's ruling party, the Awami League, has released a comprehensive 108-page election manifesto which reinforces the party's commitment to strengthen ties with India and expand cooperation on various fronts. The manifesto, unveiled by the Sheikh Hasina government, outlines the continuation of policies to "cooperate with India" in areas such as cross-border connectivity, transit, energy partnerships, and equitable water sharing. The manifesto explicitly states, "the Government will continue bilateral trade and security cooperation with India," reflecting the positive engagement between Bangladesh and India in recent years. Joint projects, including an oil pipeline and India's use of Bangladesh ports, underscore the collaborative efforts between the two nations. Notably, the document goes beyond regional partnerships, expressing a commitment to open new avenues of cooperation with India, Bhutan, and Nepal for hydropower generation and joint management of common river basins. Key foreign policy achievements, such as "resolving long-standing issues with India through demarcation of land boundaries and exchanging enclaves", are highlighted as cornerstones of the government's successful tenure. It said this has helped in encouraging "continued multilateral cooperation and friendly relations with India". The manifesto recognises the settlement of maritime boundaries with Myanmar and India as significant accomplishments, unlocking immense potential for the blue economy. In a global context, the Awami League aims to build a "strong friendship" with Russia to expand the energy sector. Regarding ties with China, the manifesto declares Dhaka's willingness to "strengthen relations... in terms of development financing." The party envisions strengthening relations with ASEAN countries and developing better and closer ties with Australia and Pacific nations. It reaffirms a commitment to "strengthen and diversify development cooperation" with the United States, the United Kingdom, the European Union, Japan, and Canada. The document reiterates the government's "determination" to prevent the presence of militant, international terrorists, and separatist groups within its territory. Among the manifesto's listed achievements, the ruling party proudly highlights Bangladesh's active participation in ten global peacekeeping missions, deploying over 7000 peacekeepers. The manifesto positions this as a "manifestation of Bangladesh's significant contribution to international peace and security." The document also underscores the publication of the Indo-Pacific framework in April 2023, aimed at "promoting open, peaceful, secure, inclusive, equitable prosperity for all".

Bangladesh Awami League's manifesto emphasises on deepening ties with India

A Bangladesh court sentenced a former air force chief and an ex-minister to prison Thursday in the latest conviction of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's political opponents ahead of elections next month. Altaf Hossain Chowdhury headed the air force until 1995 and later joined the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), the main opposition to Hasina's ruling Awami League.

Crackdown on opposition continues in Bangladesh ahead of Jan 7 polls

No accusations, no protests, not even a non-cooperation movement has been able to stop Sheikh Hasina. The Bangladeshi Prime Minister has launched her election campaign.

Bangladesh: PM Sheikh Hasina launches her campaign

Protesters in Bangladesh set a train ablaze on Tuesday, killing four people, among them a mother and child, amid a countrywide strike called by the opposition to press its demand for the government to resign ahead of next month's general elections.

Bangladesh: Protest and strikes become daily affairs across nation

After a series of blockades and hartals in Bangladesh, the opposition BNP party called for a non-cooperation movement against the incumbent government from Wednesday, appealing to the country's citizens to boycott the January 7 election.

Bangladesh's main opposition party gives non-cooperation call

After a series of blockades and hartals in Bangladesh, the opposition party BNP called for a non-cooperation movement against the incumbent government from Wednesday (Nov 20), appealing to the country's citizens to boycott the January 7 election.

The decision was taken by the party’s acting chief, Tarique Rahman, said BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi, while speaking in a virtual press conference on Wednesday afternoon.&nbsp;

Rizvi appealed to the citizens and the administration to stop co-operating with the government.&nbsp;

He made specific requests to officers and employees who were given the election duties to not carry out their responsibilities, adding that the government has already compiled a list of election winners and future MPs.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-protesters-set-train-on-fire-amid-opposition-strike-four-killed-671662">Bangladesh protesters set train on fire amid opposition strike, four killed</a>

Moreover, Rizvi further appealed to the people to not pay their taxes or utility bills from now on.

Rizvi further appealed to people to consider if the deposition of money in banks was any more secure, as “the government has done most of its plundering through the banking sector.”

The BNP further appealed to its leaders and activists not to make further appearances in what was characterised by the party as "false" cases.

<h2>BNP calls countrywide blockade on Dec 24</h2>

The BNP and its allies also called for the countrywide road-rail-waterway blockade on December 24 as they appealed for the non-party caretaker government system's restoration.&nbsp;

A mass campaign will be conducted by the opposition parties on December 21, 22 and 23, extending their support to the boycott of the election and the non-cooperation movement.

Watch:&nbsp;Bangladesh National Party wants PM Sheikh Hasina to step down

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/bangladesh-national-party-wants-pm-sheikh-hasina-to-step-down-671728/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

This will be the 11th blockade programme carried out by the opposition parties since October 31.

The blockade will start at 6:00 am (local time) on Sunday and end at 6:00 pm (local time) the same day.

Meanwhile, Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Wednesday started her election campaign in the eastern Sylhet district amid calls for non-cooperation and an election boycott from the opposition parties.

“Not participating in elections is their (opposition parties) democratic right. But they are creating fear with arson attacks in the name of movement and destroying government property – property that belongs to the people,” she said.

(With inputs from agencies)

After a series of blockades and hartals in Bangladesh, the opposition party BNP called for a non-cooperation movement against the incumbent government from Wednesday (Nov 20), appealing to the country's citizens to boycott the January 7 election.

After a series of blockades and hartals in Bangladesh, the opposition party BNP called for a non-cooperation movement against the incumbent government from Wednesday (Nov 20), appealing to the country's citizens to boycott the January 7 election. The decision was taken by the party’s acting chief, Tarique Rahman, said BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi, while speaking in a virtual press conference on Wednesday afternoon. Rizvi appealed to the citizens and the administration to stop co-operating with the government. He made specific requests to officers and employees who were given the election duties to not carry out their responsibilities, adding that the government has already compiled a list of election winners and future MPs. Also read: Bangladesh protesters set train on fire amid opposition strike, four killed Moreover, Rizvi further appealed to the people to not pay their taxes or utility bills from now on. Rizvi further appealed to people to consider if the deposition of money in banks was any more secure, as “the government has done most of its plundering through the banking sector.” The BNP further appealed to its leaders and activists not to make further appearances in what was characterised by the party as "false" cases. BNP calls countrywide blockade on Dec 24 The BNP and its allies also called for the countrywide road-rail-waterway blockade on December 24 as they appealed for the non-party caretaker government system's restoration. A mass campaign will be conducted by the opposition parties on December 21, 22 and 23, extending their support to the boycott of the election and the non-cooperation movement. Watch: Bangladesh National Party wants PM Sheikh Hasina to step down This will be the 11th blockade programme carried out by the opposition parties since October 31. The blockade will start at 6:00 am (local time) on Sunday and end at 6:00 pm (local time) the same day. Meanwhile, Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Wednesday started her election campaign in the eastern Sylhet district amid calls for non-cooperation and an election boycott from the opposition parties. “Not participating in elections is their (opposition parties) democratic right. But they are creating fear with arson attacks in the name of movement and destroying government property – property that belongs to the people,” she said. (With inputs from agencies)

Bangladesh’s Opposition party starts non-cooperation movement, calls for boycott of polls

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