In Bangladesh, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is poised to secure another term amid criticism of authoritarian tendencies.

Bangladesh: Sheikh Hasina all set for fifth term, election officials say 'voting was peaceful'

Bangladesh on Sunday began voting in the 12th general elections. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is expected to win a fourth straight term and the fifth overall for her Awami League-led alliance in this general election which is boycotted by the main opposition party BNP and marred by violence ahead of the vote.

Bangladesh General Elections: PM Sheikh Hasina's Awami league set for fourth consecutive term

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 General Elections: PM Sheikh Hasina set to get another term

Bangladesh General Elections: Sheikh Hasina's Awami league set for fourth consecutive term

Bangladesh General Elections: Bangladesh goes to poll amid boycott and strikes

General elections in Bangladesh are currently underway amid isolated incidents of pre-poll violence and boycotting of elections by key opposition leaders. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is expected to win a fourth straight term in the absence of the main Opposition BNP.

Bangladesh General Elections: Voting underway with main Opposition boycotting polls

Bangladesh General Elections: PM Sheikh Hasina set to get another term in absence of main opposition

Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) led by former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia is 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: Nationalist parties boycotts parliamentary elections

Bangladesh on Sunday began voting in the 12th general elections. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is expected to win a fourth straight term. WION tells you, from Sheikh Mujibur Rahman to Sheikh Hasina- how Dhaka's politics has come a long way.

Bangladesh General Elections: The politics of Bangladesh

As Bangladesh goes to the polls today, the big question has emerged - Will it be a one-woman show? Sheikh Hasina's opposition parties have boycotted the general elections. What's next for Bangladesh?

Bangladesh Election 2024: Does this election matter?

For the latest tenure of Dhaka's Jatiya Sangsad, Bangladesh's supreme legislative body, while the numbers are not entirely in, the verdict is already out. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's Awami League (AL) party looks set to win the country's twelfth parliamentary polls after the conclusion of the voting process on Sunday (Jan 7).

This will be Hasina's fourth term in a row and fifth prime ministerial term in total, following a national&nbsp;election boycotted by the principal opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and reports of voter suppression, and vote-rigging tactics by Hasina's&nbsp;ruling party. In boycotting elections, Hasina's party has accused the BNP of adopting fundamentalist tactics.

<img alt="Bangladesh held its 12th parliamentary election on Sunday, Jan 7, 2023" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1225f151-569d-4402-89ed-fa6bf26d445d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202024-01-07T134714.120.png" />

Bangladesh held its 12th parliamentary election on Sunday, Jan 7, 2023 | Agencies

On the voting day, the website of a newspaper critical of the Hasina government was blocked for several hours. A prominent daily from Dhaka reported on alleged obstruction to the voting process by using indirect euphemisms: 'Three Boat supporters jailed for obstructing voters', the publication reported with the boat being the election symbol of Sheikh Hasina's Awami League (AL) Party.&nbsp;

While&nbsp;Kazi Habibul Awal, the Chief Election Commissioner in Dhaka requested the media to highlight the purported transparency in the voting process, he ended up pointing out that he could see only Awami League's polling agents in the voting centres he visited in the Bangladesh capital. Note that a total of '<a href="https://x.com/albd1971/status/1743880385237491979?s=20">28 registered parties</a>' were in the fray with some 1,900 candidates vying for 300 seats of the Jatiya Sangsad.&nbsp;

Foreign observers from various capitals of the world, including New Delhi, Canberra, Oslo, and Washington DC, will report on their assessment of the credibility of the elections. But until then, a 40 per cent voter turnout&nbsp;speaks a story on its own.&nbsp;

<h2>Why does Sheikh&nbsp;Hasina matter for New Delhi and Beijing?</h2>

But Hasina's return to power is expected&nbsp;to keep the semblance of geoeconomic stability in the region. The question of who serves from Dhaka's Prime Minister's Office has had several ambitions to play out in recent times. From New Delhi's buffer state priorities to Beijing's Belt &amp; Road vision, as well as the strategic interests of Washington and Moscow's bid to partner with Dhaka in Bangladesh's infrastructure revamp projects.&nbsp;

Fifty-two years after Bangladesh&nbsp;came into being following a bloodied war for independence from present-day Pakistan, the country remains at an inflection point.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Its $400 billion economy&nbsp;grew at 7.1 per cent&nbsp;in 2022.

Hasina in power in Dhaka has been seen as pivotal to&nbsp;Bangladesh's growth and stability by New Delhi and Beijing, who see her&nbsp;as crucial to advancing their strategic interests in South Asia and the Indo-Pacific region.

Since coming to power in 2009, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's&nbsp;approach towards New Delhi and Beijing reflects a strategy to assort Bangladesh's&nbsp;national interests over zero-sum strategic affairs.

While pursuing an ambitious goal to achieve developed nation status for Bangladesh by 2041, Sheikh Hasina&nbsp;has strategically harnessed&nbsp;the strengths of both India and China with visits to New Delhi and Beijing aimed at&nbsp;balancing ties.

Dhaka is pursuing a modernisation project for Mongla port under Beijing's ambitious&nbsp;Belt and Road Initiative.&nbsp;

New Delhi's&nbsp;Bangladesh-China-India-Myanmar Corridor (BCIM) initiative too is another stride in the country's&nbsp;regional connectivity goals.&nbsp; 
<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/11/01/390573-modi-23.png?imwidth=3840" />

File photo of Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina with her Indian counterpart Narendra Modi | Reuters

The continuity of investments by both New Delhi and Beijing depends on Hasina's return to power.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/xi-jinpings-2023-when-chinas-bri-dream-faced-an-italian-reality-check-674821">Xi Jinping's 2023: When China's BRI dream faced an Italian 'reality check'</a>

The fundamentalism in Afghanistan following the Taliban's takeover of Kabul&nbsp;has already challenged New Delhi's investments in Afghanistan. While Beijing's ambitious China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) has also come under attack by Pakistani fundamentalists.&nbsp;

Bangladesh's economic success story under Hasina has given the region a semblance of stability. Both Beijing and New Delhi, therefore, view Sheikh Hasina's return as a sign of continued stability in the region.&nbsp;

For the latest tenure of Dhaka's Jatiya Sangsad, Bangladesh's supreme legislative body, while the numbers are not entirely in, the verdict is already out. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's Awami League (AL) party looks set to win the country's twelfth parliamentary polls after the conclusion of the voting process on Sunday (Jan 7).

For the latest tenure of Dhaka's Jatiya Sangsad, Bangladesh's supreme legislative body, while the numbers are not entirely in, the verdict is already out. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's Awami League (AL) party looks set to win the country's twelfth parliamentary polls after the conclusion of the voting process on Sunday (Jan 7). This will be Hasina's fourth term in a row and fifth prime ministerial term in total, following a national election boycotted by the principal opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and reports of voter suppression, and vote-rigging tactics by Hasina's ruling party. In boycotting elections, Hasina's party has accused the BNP of adopting fundamentalist tactics. Bangladesh held its 12th parliamentary election on Sunday, Jan 7, 2023 | Agencies On the voting day, the website of a newspaper critical of the Hasina government was blocked for several hours. A prominent daily from Dhaka reported on alleged obstruction to the voting process by using indirect euphemisms: 'Three Boat supporters jailed for obstructing voters', the publication reported with the boat being the election symbol of Sheikh Hasina's Awami League (AL) Party. While Kazi Habibul Awal, the Chief Election Commissioner in Dhaka requested the media to highlight the purported transparency in the voting process, he ended up pointing out that he could see only Awami League's polling agents in the voting centres he visited in the Bangladesh capital. Note that a total of '28 registered parties' were in the fray with some 1,900 candidates vying for 300 seats of the Jatiya Sangsad. Foreign observers from various capitals of the world, including New Delhi, Canberra, Oslo, and Washington DC, will report on their assessment of the credibility of the elections. But until then, a 40 per cent voter turnout speaks a story on its own. Why does Sheikh Hasina matter for New Delhi and Beijing? But Hasina's return to power is expected to keep the semblance of geoeconomic stability in the region. The question of who serves from Dhaka's Prime Minister's Office has had several ambitions to play out in recent times. From New Delhi's buffer state priorities to Beijing's Belt & Road vision, as well as the strategic interests of Washington and Moscow's bid to partner with Dhaka in Bangladesh's infrastructure revamp projects. Fifty-two years after Bangladesh came into being following a bloodied war for independence from present-day Pakistan, the country remains at an inflection point. Its $400 billion economy grew at 7.1 per cent in 2022. Hasina in power in Dhaka has been seen as pivotal to Bangladesh's growth and stability by New Delhi and Beijing, who see her as crucial to advancing their strategic interests in South Asia and the Indo-Pacific region. Since coming to power in 2009, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's approach towards New Delhi and Beijing reflects a strategy to assort Bangladesh's national interests over zero-sum strategic affairs. While pursuing an ambitious goal to achieve developed nation status for Bangladesh by 2041, Sheikh Hasina has strategically harnessed the strengths of both India and China with visits to New Delhi and Beijing aimed at balancing ties. Dhaka is pursuing a modernisation project for Mongla port under Beijing's ambitious Belt and Road Initiative. New Delhi's Bangladesh-China-India-Myanmar Corridor (BCIM) initiative too is another stride in the country's regional connectivity goals. File photo of Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina with her Indian counterpart Narendra Modi | Reuters The continuity of investments by both New Delhi and Beijing depends on Hasina's return to power. Also read | Xi Jinping's 2023: When China's BRI dream faced an Italian 'reality check' The fundamentalism in Afghanistan following the Taliban's takeover of Kabul has already challenged New Delhi's investments in Afghanistan. While Beijing's ambitious China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) has also come under attack by Pakistani fundamentalists. Bangladesh's economic success story under Hasina has given the region a semblance of stability. Both Beijing and New Delhi, therefore, view Sheikh Hasina's return as a sign of continued stability in the region.

The Capitals: Dhaka's tryst with PM Sheikh Hasina-styled democracy

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'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

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 foreign minister A K&nbsp;Abdul Momen has assured that the Bangladesh general elections scheduled to be held on Sunday (Jan 7) will be "free, fair, transparent and credible" and that the government has increased the security to prevent any violence. Speaking to WION's diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal from Dhaka, Momen expressed his disappointment over the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/five-killed-as-passenger-train-in-bangladesh-catches-fire-police-suspect-arson-677029">arson attack on Benpole Express</a> saying, "This is indeed deplorable, such a heinous crime and we will find the culprit and definitely will punish them."

He thanked the Indian government for its statement on the Bangladesh election, pointing out that "India has a mature democracy."

"We are thankful to India for such a&nbsp;statement. The sustained statement they have been making all the time, that this is a domestic issue".&nbsp;

Momen highlighted how several observers, from the West and India are in the country to monitor the elections. He spoke about the US comments on the elections, Awami League's manifesto, and more.

Sidhant Sibal: Your reaction to the burning of the Benapole Express train?

A. K. Abdul Momen: It is very sad, and indeed, very disappointing. The train, fully loaded, had 194 passengers from Benapole to Dhaka, and the arsonists burned four compartments as a result poor people died, including two little kids. This is indeed deplorable, such a heinous crime. We will find the culprits and definitely punish them. This is not acceptable at all. We would expect everyone to condemn such heinous acts and if any political party is behind them, they should repent for such heinous crimes.

Sidhant Sibal: Do you expect more violence before the elections? It's less than 24 hours before Bangladesh goes to elections?

A. K. Abdul Momen: You see, in the whole subcontinent there is a culture of violence, during or before the election. And this time the violence is relatively low. But yet there are new innovative ways of burden. For example, burning the compartments of a railway. These are the new things we see or&nbsp;derailing the train. The government has taken adequate measures so that there is no more violence. But these are some tough guerrilla attacks. So it's difficult to tell if there will be more. But we will try to see that no arsonist can take any advantage until our election time, we have mobilised thousands of police forces all across and we have asked the general public to let us know if they know any of those conspiracies, and the public will be rewarded. So I hope that violence will reduce dramatically.

Sidhant Sibal: So what are the measures taken by the Bangladeshi Government ahead of the elections, in terms of the number of deployments, in terms of security?&nbsp;

A. K. Abdul Momen: See there are varieties of focus, and all forces have been mobilised, including the army, so we hope that the violence will stop. I cannot tell you how many people but hundreds and thousands, a variety of police forces have been mobilised all across the country.

Sidhant Sibal: If I can talk about a geopolitical aspect, we have seen comments coming from Washington. We have seen the US ambassador also commenting, how do you see these comments so over the Bangladesh elections

A. K. Abdul Momen: As you understand, the US and Europeans have been asking us for a free, fair, and transparent election. Now they're more or less convinced that there will be a free, fair, transparent, and credible elections. Since then, they have not made too much noise but it is not their noise which is important. The most important is ours. We want&nbsp;a free, fair, credible, and transparent election. That's our objective. To uphold a free, fair, and transparent election.

Sidhant Sibal: So you're giving an assurance to the global community that the Bangladesh elections will be free, fair, and transparent.

A. K. Abdul Momen: Yes, of course, there is no doubt about it. And if anyone wants to observe we have invited hundreds of observers, around 25,000 local election observers and there are 227 international observers, from many organisations like the Commonwealth, you name it, the IPU (Inter-Parliamentary Conference), and OIC (Organization for Islamic Cooperation). There are Western observers here. And they're free to move anywhere. In addition, there are journalists from all across the globe. So, my reading is that you know, they will be reporting but we want a free, fair, non-violent, and transparent election.

Sidhant Sibal: Observers from India as well?

A. K. Abdul Momen: There are observers from India as well, the election commission of India. In addition, there are plenty of journalists from India.

Sidhant Sibal: So, my final question now, India has said that the Bangladesh election is its domestic matter, a stance clear, consistent taken by New Delhi. How do you see that stance as well?

A. K. Abdul Momen: I must say that we have great respect for Indian leadership, and India has a mature democracy. So, they know that these elections have domestic issues. These are not International, you know, leaders to make their own national interest you see, so, I'm very pleased and, we are very pleased with the Indian statement that this is a domestic issue, and Bangladesh is knows, over the last so many years, we have hold 1000s of elections. So we know how to manage a free fair and transparent election. We are thankful to India for such a &nbsp;statement. And the statement is steadfast. The sustained statement they've been making all the time is that this is a domestic issue. I hope other governments across the world, should realise what India is saying and they should follow India. Every country even in the developed country, there are questions about their democracy, about systems so they should be mindful of their systems instead of poking their nose on someone else's domestic issues.

Sidhant Sibal: The manifesto of Awami League has talked about strengthening ties with India. The manifesto, I read...

A. K. Abdul Momen: If you look at our manifesto, the general manifesto which is most important to our public issues like inflation issues, like job creation issues, as you know, women empowerment, these are included, and also issues like you know, this freedom of media, and because we believe media is a party to our development process. And of course, we have believed that you know, we must maintain a balanced foreign policy and our cardinal principle is friendship to all, malice to none. In addition, we always give the neighborhood first, we give importance to our neighbors. We are thankful that we have developed a very good relationship with all our neighbours India, Nepal, Bhutan, and even Myanmar. Although Myanmar you see, has sent around 1.2 million, persecuted residents of Myanmar, we have a good relationship and we hope we can resolve the repatriation of these people amicably through dialogue and discussion. And I can guarantee that the election would be free, fair, non-violent, and credible. Thank you. Thank you so much.

Bangladesh foreign minister A K Abdul Momen has assured that the Bangladesh general elections scheduled to be held on Sunday (Jan 7) will be "free, fair, transparent and credible" and that the government has increased the security to prevent any violence.

Bangladesh foreign minister A K Abdul Momen has assured that the Bangladesh general elections scheduled to be held on Sunday (Jan 7) will be "free, fair, transparent and credible" and that the government has increased the security to prevent any violence. Speaking to WION's diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal from Dhaka, Momen expressed his disappointment over the arson attack on Benpole Express saying, "This is indeed deplorable, such a heinous crime and we will find the culprit and definitely will punish them." He thanked the Indian government for its statement on the Bangladesh election, pointing out that "India has a mature democracy." "We are thankful to India for such a statement. The sustained statement they have been making all the time, that this is a domestic issue". Momen highlighted how several observers, from the West and India are in the country to monitor the elections. He spoke about the US comments on the elections, Awami League's manifesto, and more. Sidhant Sibal: Your reaction to the burning of the Benapole Express train? A. K. Abdul Momen: It is very sad, and indeed, very disappointing. The train, fully loaded, had 194 passengers from Benapole to Dhaka, and the arsonists burned four compartments as a result poor people died, including two little kids. This is indeed deplorable, such a heinous crime. We will find the culprits and definitely punish them. This is not acceptable at all. We would expect everyone to condemn such heinous acts and if any political party is behind them, they should repent for such heinous crimes. Sidhant Sibal: Do you expect more violence before the elections? It's less than 24 hours before Bangladesh goes to elections? A. K. Abdul Momen: You see, in the whole subcontinent there is a culture of violence, during or before the election. And this time the violence is relatively low. But yet there are new innovative ways of burden. For example, burning the compartments of a railway. These are the new things we see or derailing the train. The government has taken adequate measures so that there is no more violence. But these are some tough guerrilla attacks. So it's difficult to tell if there will be more. But we will try to see that no arsonist can take any advantage until our election time, we have mobilised thousands of police forces all across and we have asked the general public to let us know if they know any of those conspiracies, and the public will be rewarded. So I hope that violence will reduce dramatically. Sidhant Sibal: So what are the measures taken by the Bangladeshi Government ahead of the elections, in terms of the number of deployments, in terms of security? A. K. Abdul Momen: See there are varieties of focus, and all forces have been mobilised, including the army, so we hope that the violence will stop. I cannot tell you how many people but hundreds and thousands, a variety of police forces have been mobilised all across the country. Sidhant Sibal: If I can talk about a geopolitical aspect, we have seen comments coming from Washington. We have seen the US ambassador also commenting, how do you see these comments so over the Bangladesh elections A. K. Abdul Momen: As you understand, the US and Europeans have been asking us for a free, fair, and transparent election. Now they're more or less convinced that there will be a free, fair, transparent, and credible elections. Since then, they have not made too much noise but it is not their noise which is important. The most important is ours. We want a free, fair, credible, and transparent election. That's our objective. To uphold a free, fair, and transparent election. Sidhant Sibal: So you're giving an assurance to the global community that the Bangladesh elections will be free, fair, and transparent. A. K. Abdul Momen: Yes, of course, there is no doubt about it. And if anyone wants to observe we have invited hundreds of observers, around 25,000 local election observers and there are 227 international observers, from many organisations like the Commonwealth, you name it, the IPU (Inter-Parliamentary Conference), and OIC (Organization for Islamic Cooperation). There are Western observers here. And they're free to move anywhere. In addition, there are journalists from all across the globe. So, my reading is that you know, they will be reporting but we want a free, fair, non-violent, and transparent election. Sidhant Sibal: Observers from India as well? A. K. Abdul Momen: There are observers from India as well, the election commission of India. In addition, there are plenty of journalists from India. Sidhant Sibal: So, my final question now, India has said that the Bangladesh election is its domestic matter, a stance clear, consistent taken by New Delhi. How do you see that stance as well? A. K. Abdul Momen: I must say that we have great respect for Indian leadership, and India has a mature democracy. So, they know that these elections have domestic issues. These are not International, you know, leaders to make their own national interest you see, so, I'm very pleased and, we are very pleased with the Indian statement that this is a domestic issue, and Bangladesh is knows, over the last so many years, we have hold 1000s of elections. So we know how to manage a free fair and transparent election. We are thankful to India for such a statement. And the statement is steadfast. The sustained statement they've been making all the time is that this is a domestic issue. I hope other governments across the world, should realise what India is saying and they should follow India. Every country even in the developed country, there are questions about their democracy, about systems so they should be mindful of their systems instead of poking their nose on someone else's domestic issues. Sidhant Sibal: The manifesto of Awami League has talked about strengthening ties with India. The manifesto, I read... A. K. Abdul Momen: If you look at our manifesto, the general manifesto which is most important to our public issues like inflation issues, like job creation issues, as you know, women empowerment, these are included, and also issues like you know, this freedom of media, and because we believe media is a party to our development process. And of course, we have believed that you know, we must maintain a balanced foreign policy and our cardinal principle is friendship to all, malice to none. In addition, we always give the neighborhood first, we give importance to our neighbors. We are thankful that we have developed a very good relationship with all our neighbours India, Nepal, Bhutan, and even Myanmar. Although Myanmar you see, has sent around 1.2 million, persecuted residents of Myanmar, we have a good relationship and we hope we can resolve the repatriation of these people amicably through dialogue and discussion. And I can guarantee that the election would be free, fair, non-violent, and credible. Thank you. Thank you so much.

Elections will be free, fair, transparent and credible, Bangladesh FM Momen tells WION

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

Bangladesh's Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina continues to evoke her father Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, her critics have alleged, according to reports.

Awami League is widely expected to win Sunday's elections following an opposition boycott.&nbsp;

Hasina's government has enacted a law that implements stiff punishment for any comments, written work or social media posts deemed defamatory.&nbsp;

"She has basically introduced a secular blasphemy law in the country for her father -- the kind we see in one-party states," a senior human rights activist in Bangladesh told news agency AFP on the condition of anonymity.

<h2>How Sheikh Mujibur Rahman looms large in Bangladesh?</h2>

Since his daughter returned to office in 2009, Mujib's picture has appeared on every banknote and in hundreds of public murals across the South Asian nation of 170 million people situated above the Bay of Bengal.

At the centre of this project of national commemoration is Hasina's childhood home in an upmarket neighbourhood of the capital Dhaka.&nbsp;

Now a museum, the residence is where her father, uncle and three brothers were gunned down by disgruntled army officers in August 1975.&nbsp;

The walls are still marked with bullet holes from that day.

Hundreds visit daily to pay their respects to the 'father of the nation'.&nbsp;

<h2>About Sheikh Mujibur Rahman</h2>

He was the key political figure during a period of growing agitation for independence from Pakistan, which had governed the territory now known as Bangladesh since the 1947 end of British colonial rule.

He was imprisoned by Pakistan's military regime in March 1971 but was released in December following the formation of Bangladesh, as months of crackdown by the Pakistani Army killed as many as three million Bangladeshi people and pushed people to the edge for freedom from military oppression.&nbsp;

Also watch |&nbsp;Bangladesh election: Key opposition party stares at leadership void | Race To Power

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/bangladesh-election-key-opposition-party-stares-at-leadership-void-race-to-power-666571/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Mujib was the first post-independence leader but the tumultuous years that followed saw Bangladesh struggle through the economic devastation imposed by the war, including a famine in which hundreds of thousands of people died.&nbsp;

Hasina reportedly refers to his assassination in a 1975 military coup in almost every speech she gives, her voice often choking with emotion.&nbsp;

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>

It was "the betrayal of the hopes and aspirations of the people of the soil", she once wrote.

Hasina, 76, has been in power for 15 straight years – the longest-serving leader in Bangladesh’s history.

As she seeks a record fourth term in Sunday’s vote, the main opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), led by ailing former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, has decided to boycott the vote, as it did in 2014.

Zia, 78, was jailed for more than two years over corruption charges. Zia was moved to house arrest over health concerns in 2020.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Bangladesh's Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina continues to evoke her father Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, her critics have alleged, according to reports. Awami League is widely expected to win Sunday's elections following an opposition boycott.

Bangladesh's Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina continues to evoke her father Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, her critics have alleged, according to reports. Awami League is widely expected to win Sunday's elections following an opposition boycott. Hasina's government has enacted a law that implements stiff punishment for any comments, written work or social media posts deemed defamatory. "She has basically introduced a secular blasphemy law in the country for her father -- the kind we see in one-party states," a senior human rights activist in Bangladesh told news agency AFP on the condition of anonymity. How Sheikh Mujibur Rahman looms large in Bangladesh? Since his daughter returned to office in 2009, Mujib's picture has appeared on every banknote and in hundreds of public murals across the South Asian nation of 170 million people situated above the Bay of Bengal. At the centre of this project of national commemoration is Hasina's childhood home in an upmarket neighbourhood of the capital Dhaka. Now a museum, the residence is where her father, uncle and three brothers were gunned down by disgruntled army officers in August 1975. The walls are still marked with bullet holes from that day. Hundreds visit daily to pay their respects to the 'father of the nation'. About Sheikh Mujibur Rahman He was the key political figure during a period of growing agitation for independence from Pakistan, which had governed the territory now known as Bangladesh since the 1947 end of British colonial rule. He was imprisoned by Pakistan's military regime in March 1971 but was released in December following the formation of Bangladesh, as months of crackdown by the Pakistani Army killed as many as three million Bangladeshi people and pushed people to the edge for freedom from military oppression. Also watch | Bangladesh election: Key opposition party stares at leadership void | Race To Power × Mujib was the first post-independence leader but the tumultuous years that followed saw Bangladesh struggle through the economic devastation imposed by the war, including a famine in which hundreds of thousands of people died. Hasina reportedly refers to his assassination in a 1975 military coup in almost every speech she gives, her voice often choking with emotion. Also read | The Capitals: Can Sheikh Hasina sail through stormy season of Dhaka politics? It was "the betrayal of the hopes and aspirations of the people of the soil", she once wrote. Hasina, 76, has been in power for 15 straight years – the longest-serving leader in Bangladesh’s history. As she seeks a record fourth term in Sunday’s vote, the main opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), led by ailing former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, has decided to boycott the vote, as it did in 2014. Zia, 78, was jailed for more than two years over corruption charges. Zia was moved to house arrest over health concerns in 2020. (With inputs from agencies)

Sheikh Hasina using father Mujibur Rahman to keep grip over Bangladesh politics?

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is heading to South Asian country's January 7 national elections with a 14-party alliance led by her Awami League (AL). Hasina is also the president of Awami League political party.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Earlier this week, the alliance leaders reportedly submitted the respective lists of their&nbsp;candidates at a meeting. It was not immediately clear how many seats Awami League will leave for its alliance partners.&nbsp;

The deadline for nomination of candidates for respective constituencies is scheduled to end on December 17. The alliance coordinator Amir Hossain Amu and Awami League General Secretary Obaidul Quader has been reportedly instructed to follow up the nomination within the said timeframe.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sheikh-hasina-elected-awami-league-president-for-10th-consecutive-term-546371">Sheikh Hasina elected Awami League president for 10th consecutive term</a>

"There must be an agreement with the alliance regarding seat sharing. 14 parties may have demands. But the Awami League will evaluate the popular ones. Candidates who can win the election will be given more importance," Quader, also the road transport and bridges minister, said during a press conference.

Hasina urged the alliance partners to&nbsp;be united before and after the polls and called upon the leaders to not withdraw the party candidates upon announcement.&nbsp;

Also watch |&nbsp;Bangladesh: BNP looking at overthrowing Hasina's Awami government

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/bangladesh-elections-opposition-claims-awami-league-is-threatening-them-185488/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Besides, reports in the Bangladeshi media claim that more parties intend to join the electoral alliance of the Awami League-led 14 parties.

Awami League leadership said that the decision on seat sharing will be announced soon.

"I want all the candidates to be in the field. This will increase voter turnout. Voting will also be festive, participatory and competitive," PM Hasina said during the meeting.&nbsp;

It was decided that the alliance would not include any party, but there could be some strategic alliances before the election, Dhaka Tribune reported.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is heading to South Asian country's January 7 national elections with a 14-party alliance led by her Awami League (AL). Hasina is also the president of Awami League political party.

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is heading to South Asian country's January 7 national elections with a 14-party alliance led by her Awami League (AL). Hasina is also the president of Awami League political party. Earlier this week, the alliance leaders reportedly submitted the respective lists of their candidates at a meeting. It was not immediately clear how many seats Awami League will leave for its alliance partners. The deadline for nomination of candidates for respective constituencies is scheduled to end on December 17. The alliance coordinator Amir Hossain Amu and Awami League General Secretary Obaidul Quader has been reportedly instructed to follow up the nomination within the said timeframe. Also read | Sheikh Hasina elected Awami League president for 10th consecutive term "There must be an agreement with the alliance regarding seat sharing. 14 parties may have demands. But the Awami League will evaluate the popular ones. Candidates who can win the election will be given more importance," Quader, also the road transport and bridges minister, said during a press conference. Hasina urged the alliance partners to be united before and after the polls and called upon the leaders to not withdraw the party candidates upon announcement. Also watch | Bangladesh: BNP looking at overthrowing Hasina's Awami government × Besides, reports in the Bangladeshi media claim that more parties intend to join the electoral alliance of the Awami League-led 14 parties. Awami League leadership said that the decision on seat sharing will be announced soon. "I want all the candidates to be in the field. This will increase voter turnout. Voting will also be festive, participatory and competitive," PM Hasina said during the meeting. It was decided that the alliance would not include any party, but there could be some strategic alliances before the election, Dhaka Tribune reported. (With inputs from agencies)

Bangladesh elections 2024: PM Sheikh Hasina-led 14 party alliance to head to polls

At least 10,000 activists were arrested during a sweeping crackdown launched by the ruling establishment in Bangladesh against the opposition parties, Human Rights Watch claimed on Monday, adding that the government wants to “eliminate competition” ahead of the general elections next year.

Among those arrested are the members of the principal opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), which said that around half of its five million members “face politically motivated prosecution”.

“The arrests, they are not leaving anyone behind, from senior level to the ground level,” one activist told the HRW.

<h2>‘Many jails overcrowded with political prisoners’&nbsp;</h2>

Many jails are reportedly overcrowded with political prisoners, the NGO alleged in its report.

“Bangladesh authorities are carrying out mass arrests of political opposition in a clear attempt to quash the opposition and eliminate competition ahead of the general elections”, the New York-based rights group said.

The group further claimed that at least 16 people have been killed, including two police officers, since the protests escalated in October demanding Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to step down. Whereas, more than 5,500 people have been injured.

The HRW said that its assertions were based on multiple witness interviews and analysis of videos and police reports.

In its report titled ‘Bangladesh: Violent Autocratic Crackdown Ahead of Elections’, it said it had found "evidence that security forces are responsible for using excessive force, mass arbitrary arrests, enforced disappearances, torture, and extrajudicial killings."

On Sunday, the BNP on Sunday said at least 16,625 members had been arrested since October.

<h2>BNP facing the brunt of crackdown&nbsp;</h2>

They include most of its leadership, most notably the BNP's de facto chief Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir.

Prosecutors and lawyers said in the past two weeks at least 526 BNP officials and activists were convicted and sentenced, mostly in absentia, over what the party said were "trumped up" charges.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/fs-momen-reacts-to-us-comments-on-bangladesh-election-highlights-interference-662808">FS Momen reacts to US comments on Bangladesh election, highlights 'interference'</a>

The BNP and its allies want a neutral interim government ahead of the general elections, arguing that free and fair polls are not possible under Hasina.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/protests-court-appeals-as-nepals-tiktokers-decry-government-ban-on-app-661937">Protests, court appeals as Nepal's TikTokers decry government ban on app</a>

This demand was firmly rejected by the government led by Hasina’s Awami League.

The political unrest comes at a time when the country is facing economic hardship, with most voters struggling to cope with the escalating cost of living, especially rising food prices. Inflation was around 9.6 per cent in September.

At least 10,000 activists were arrested during a sweeping crackdown launched by the ruling establishment in Bangladesh against the opposition parties, Human Rights Watch claimed on Monday, adding that the government wants to “eliminate competition” ahead of the general elections next year.

At least 10,000 activists were arrested during a sweeping crackdown launched by the ruling establishment in Bangladesh against the opposition parties, Human Rights Watch claimed on Monday, adding that the government wants to “eliminate competition” ahead of the general elections next year. Among those arrested are the members of the principal opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), which said that around half of its five million members “face politically motivated prosecution”. “The arrests, they are not leaving anyone behind, from senior level to the ground level,” one activist told the HRW. ‘Many jails overcrowded with political prisoners’ Many jails are reportedly overcrowded with political prisoners, the NGO alleged in its report. “Bangladesh authorities are carrying out mass arrests of political opposition in a clear attempt to quash the opposition and eliminate competition ahead of the general elections”, the New York-based rights group said. The group further claimed that at least 16 people have been killed, including two police officers, since the protests escalated in October demanding Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to step down. Whereas, more than 5,500 people have been injured. The HRW said that its assertions were based on multiple witness interviews and analysis of videos and police reports. In its report titled ‘Bangladesh: Violent Autocratic Crackdown Ahead of Elections’, it said it had found "evidence that security forces are responsible for using excessive force, mass arbitrary arrests, enforced disappearances, torture, and extrajudicial killings." On Sunday, the BNP on Sunday said at least 16,625 members had been arrested since October. BNP facing the brunt of crackdown They include most of its leadership, most notably the BNP's de facto chief Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir. Prosecutors and lawyers said in the past two weeks at least 526 BNP officials and activists were convicted and sentenced, mostly in absentia, over what the party said were "trumped up" charges. Also read | FS Momen reacts to US comments on Bangladesh election, highlights 'interference' The BNP and its allies want a neutral interim government ahead of the general elections, arguing that free and fair polls are not possible under Hasina. Also read | Protests, court appeals as Nepal's TikTokers decry government ban on app This demand was firmly rejected by the government led by Hasina’s Awami League. The political unrest comes at a time when the country is facing economic hardship, with most voters struggling to cope with the escalating cost of living, especially rising food prices. Inflation was around 9.6 per cent in September.

Bangladesh’s ‘autocratic lockdown’ sees over 10,000 activists behind bars: HRW  

The United States has said it is taking steps to impose visa restrictions on Bangladeshi nationals who are seen to be interfering in or "undermining" the upcoming democratic election process in the South Asian nation. 
 
General elections are supposed to be held in Bangladesh in late December or January 2024.

Reacting to the US announcement made on Friday, Bangladesh said though the development is "not a pleasing experience", Dhaka is "not worried" as it is doing nothing wrong.

"Today, the (US) Department of State is taking steps to impose visa restrictions on Bangladeshi individuals responsible for or complicit in undermining the democratic election process in Bangladesh," US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said in a statement.

"These persons and members of their immediate family may be found ineligible for entry into the United States," the statement said.

Individuals, including members of law enforcement agencies, the ruling party, and the political opposition would come under the purview of the restriction as the "United States is committed to supporting free and fair elections in Bangladesh that are carried out in a peaceful manner," it said.

Miller said the US action reflects the continued commitment of America to support Bangladesh's goal of peacefully holding free and fair national elections, and to support those seeking to advance democracy globally.

US Under Secretary for Civilian Security, Democracy and Human Rights Uzra Zeya shared the announcement on her account on X, formerly Twitter, just hours after she met with Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who is currently in New York to join the UN General Assembly's annual meeting. 
 
Bryan Schiller, spokesperson of the US embassy in Dhaka, said the United States has by now enforced visa restrictions against some members of law enforcement agencies, ruling party officials and opposition activists.

The restrictions were imposed after the US cautiously reviewed the evidence against the individuals, he said.

Schiller, however, declined to disclose the names, calling the list "secret visa records". 
In a media briefing hours after the US announcement, Bangladesh's Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Shahriar Alam said his country has nothing to lose.

"We have nothing to lose, we are not worried about it because we are not doing anything wrong," he said.

The development is "not a pleasing experience" but "we have to go through it", he said. He said he expected the US government to enforce the new visa restriction policy after reviewing facts and figures in a fair manner.

The junior foreign minister said Washington has given Dhaka an idea of the number of individuals who will face the visa restrictions.&nbsp;

"What I can tell you is that the number is small," he said.

Alam said the government believes the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), Bangladesh's main opposition party, and its fundamentalist ally Jamaat-e-Islami appear more vulnerable to the US visa restrictions as they were involved in acts aimed at foiling the next election.

The BNP has been campaigning to restore a non-party caretaker government to oversee the elections, claiming that no polls under Hasina's administration would be free. 
It has staged a series of protests demanding Hasina's resignation to allow a non-party caretaker government to oversee the polls. 
 
The BNP and other opposition groups accuse the ruling Awami League of gross rights abuses like murders and forced disappearances, and corruption. The government has repeatedly denied the allegations.

The US had earlier questioned Bangladesh's human rights situation and political inclusiveness. Last year, it slapped visa restrictions on several current and former officials of the elite anti-crime Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) on charges of alleged extra-judicial killings.

Prime Minister Hasina had sternly criticised the US action, saying she believed America did not want her government to remain in power.

She had also hinted that the US wanted military access to St Martin's Island in the Bay of Bengal, an allegation denied by the State Department.

Friday's development came a day after the European Union (EU) said it would not deploy a full election observer team to Bangladesh, citing a lack of "necessary conditions".

EU ambassador Charles Whiteley on Thursday said the bloc would not deploy a "fully-fledged" observer mission. While the EU took into account budget constraints, it said the decision also "reflects the fact that at the present time, it is not sufficiently clear whether the necessary conditions will be met".

The EU is Bangladesh's largest trade partner. The 27-member bloc is the destination of more than half of the South Asian nation's USD 55 billion export merchandise.

&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

The United States has said it is taking steps to impose visa restrictions on Bangladeshi nationals who are seen to be interfering in or "undermining" the upcoming democratic election process in the South Asian nation.

The United States has said it is taking steps to impose visa restrictions on Bangladeshi nationals who are seen to be interfering in or "undermining" the upcoming democratic election process in the South Asian nation. General elections are supposed to be held in Bangladesh in late December or January 2024. Reacting to the US announcement made on Friday, Bangladesh said though the development is "not a pleasing experience", Dhaka is "not worried" as it is doing nothing wrong. "Today, the (US) Department of State is taking steps to impose visa restrictions on Bangladeshi individuals responsible for or complicit in undermining the democratic election process in Bangladesh," US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said in a statement. "These persons and members of their immediate family may be found ineligible for entry into the United States," the statement said. Individuals, including members of law enforcement agencies, the ruling party, and the political opposition would come under the purview of the restriction as the "United States is committed to supporting free and fair elections in Bangladesh that are carried out in a peaceful manner," it said. Miller said the US action reflects the continued commitment of America to support Bangladesh's goal of peacefully holding free and fair national elections, and to support those seeking to advance democracy globally. US Under Secretary for Civilian Security, Democracy and Human Rights Uzra Zeya shared the announcement on her account on X, formerly Twitter, just hours after she met with Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who is currently in New York to join the UN General Assembly's annual meeting. Bryan Schiller, spokesperson of the US embassy in Dhaka, said the United States has by now enforced visa restrictions against some members of law enforcement agencies, ruling party officials and opposition activists. The restrictions were imposed after the US cautiously reviewed the evidence against the individuals, he said. Schiller, however, declined to disclose the names, calling the list "secret visa records". In a media briefing hours after the US announcement, Bangladesh's Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Shahriar Alam said his country has nothing to lose. "We have nothing to lose, we are not worried about it because we are not doing anything wrong," he said. The development is "not a pleasing experience" but "we have to go through it", he said. He said he expected the US government to enforce the new visa restriction policy after reviewing facts and figures in a fair manner. The junior foreign minister said Washington has given Dhaka an idea of the number of individuals who will face the visa restrictions. "What I can tell you is that the number is small," he said. Alam said the government believes the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), Bangladesh's main opposition party, and its fundamentalist ally Jamaat-e-Islami appear more vulnerable to the US visa restrictions as they were involved in acts aimed at foiling the next election. The BNP has been campaigning to restore a non-party caretaker government to oversee the elections, claiming that no polls under Hasina's administration would be free. It has staged a series of protests demanding Hasina's resignation to allow a non-party caretaker government to oversee the polls. The BNP and other opposition groups accuse the ruling Awami League of gross rights abuses like murders and forced disappearances, and corruption. The government has repeatedly denied the allegations. The US had earlier questioned Bangladesh's human rights situation and political inclusiveness. Last year, it slapped visa restrictions on several current and former officials of the elite anti-crime Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) on charges of alleged extra-judicial killings. Prime Minister Hasina had sternly criticised the US action, saying she believed America did not want her government to remain in power. She had also hinted that the US wanted military access to St Martin's Island in the Bay of Bengal, an allegation denied by the State Department. Friday's development came a day after the European Union (EU) said it would not deploy a full election observer team to Bangladesh, citing a lack of "necessary conditions". EU ambassador Charles Whiteley on Thursday said the bloc would not deploy a "fully-fledged" observer mission. While the EU took into account budget constraints, it said the decision also "reflects the fact that at the present time, it is not sufficiently clear whether the necessary conditions will be met". The EU is Bangladesh's largest trade partner. The 27-member bloc is the destination of more than half of the South Asian nation's USD 55 billion export merchandise. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US says will impose visa restrictions on individuals 'undermining' Bangladesh elections

Bangladesh will take steps to tackle and prevent unlawful practices or interference in its elections, authorities said on Thursday, a day after the United States threatened curbs on citizens of the South Asian nation who undermine them.

Concern flared after accusations of vote-rigging and the targeting of the political opposition marred national elections in 2014 and 2018, charges denied by the government of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

US&nbsp;Secretary of State Antony Blinken has said the United States is adopting a new policy to restrict visas for Bangladeshis who undermine the democratic election process at home.

"The government apparatus will take necessary measures to prevent and address any unlawful practices or interference...to compromise the smooth and participatory conduct of the elections," the Bangladesh foreign ministry said in response.

"The electoral process will remain under strict vigilance, including by international observers as accredited by the Election Commission," it added in a statement.

The commission retains the ability to perform its functions in full independence, credibility and efficiency, the ministry said.

Political analyst Badiul Alam Majumder welcomed the US&nbsp;curbs.

"I see this restriction as a preventive measure," he added. "This could avert efforts by individuals to rig elections in their favour."

Hasina, who has kept tight control of the South Asian nation since coming to power in 2009, has been accused of human rights violations, obliteration of press freedom, suppression of dissent and the jailing of critics, including many supporters of the main opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP).&nbsp;

The BNP has been calling for Hasina to step down and for the next election, due in January 2024, to be held under a neutral caretaker government, a demand her government has rejected.

"This new visa policy proves once again that the international community is certain that a free and fair election is not possible under this government," said a senior BNP leader, Zahir Uddin Swapon.

Since December 2021, Washington has maintained sanctions on an elite police unit targeting crime and terrorism, which has been accused of extrajudicial killings and enforced disappearances.&nbsp; 
 
&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Bangladesh will take steps to tackle and prevent unlawful practices or interference in its elections, authorities said on Thursday, a day after the United States threatened curbs on citizens of the South Asian nation who undermine them.

Bangladesh will take steps to tackle and prevent unlawful practices or interference in its elections, authorities said on Thursday, a day after the United States threatened curbs on citizens of the South Asian nation who undermine them. Concern flared after accusations of vote-rigging and the targeting of the political opposition marred national elections in 2014 and 2018, charges denied by the government of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has said the United States is adopting a new policy to restrict visas for Bangladeshis who undermine the democratic election process at home. "The government apparatus will take necessary measures to prevent and address any unlawful practices or interference...to compromise the smooth and participatory conduct of the elections," the Bangladesh foreign ministry said in response. "The electoral process will remain under strict vigilance, including by international observers as accredited by the Election Commission," it added in a statement. The commission retains the ability to perform its functions in full independence, credibility and efficiency, the ministry said. Political analyst Badiul Alam Majumder welcomed the US curbs. "I see this restriction as a preventive measure," he added. "This could avert efforts by individuals to rig elections in their favour." Hasina, who has kept tight control of the South Asian nation since coming to power in 2009, has been accused of human rights violations, obliteration of press freedom, suppression of dissent and the jailing of critics, including many supporters of the main opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP). The BNP has been calling for Hasina to step down and for the next election, due in January 2024, to be held under a neutral caretaker government, a demand her government has rejected. "This new visa policy proves once again that the international community is certain that a free and fair election is not possible under this government," said a senior BNP leader, Zahir Uddin Swapon. Since December 2021, Washington has maintained sanctions on an elite police unit targeting crime and terrorism, which has been accused of extrajudicial killings and enforced disappearances. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Bangladesh promises free, fair elections in response to US visa curbs

Officials in Bangladesh say they will take steps to tackle and prevent unlawful practices or interference in its elections. This comes after US says that it is adopting a new policy to restrict visas for Bangladeshis who undermine the democratic election process at home. The US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said under the new policy the United States will restrict issuing visas for any Bangladeshi individual involved in undermining the democratic election process.

US says will restricts visas for Bangladeshi nationals, PM Hasina accused of vote manipulation

Police in Bangladesh arrested Jamaat-e-Islami party chief Shafiqur Rahman in Dhaka. As head of the country's largest Islamist party, Rahman had vowed to join anti-government protests led by Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) to oust the government led by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

A number of Jamaat-e-Islami members were convicted of committing war crimes during Bangladesh Liberation War of 1971 by the International Crimes Tribunal in 2009. Later, five of its top leaders were hanged between 2013 and 2016 for committing war crimes.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bangladesh-to-go-to-polls-in-jan-2024-sheikh-hasina-seeks-fifth-term-541217">Bangladesh to go to polls in Jan 2024, announces Sheikh Hasina, seeking her fifth term</a>

Considered far-right radical, the organisation's fronts in India and Sri Lanka have been flagged as security threats in South Asia.&nbsp;

In Bangladesh, Jamaat-e-Islami has been banned from contesting elections since 2012. Previously, the Jamaat was a major ally of the right-of-centre main opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), and their coalition ruled the country between 2001-2006.

WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/south-asia-diary-bangladesh-on-the-boil-542476">South Asia Diary | Bangladesh on the boil</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/south-asia-diary-bangladesh-on-the-boil-542476/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

"This is just another episode of the unjust oppression continuing against the party for the last 15 years," Matiur Rahman Akand, Jamaat-e-Islami's publicity secretary, told AFP.

Bangladesh's current political climate

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), country's principal opposition party, has demanded that Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina should step down and for a caretaker government to conduct free and fair elections. The opposition alleges that the past two general elections in 2014 and 2018 were rigged and that they do not trust Hasina administration's conduct and if will hold fair elections. Jamaat and several left-leaning and centrist parties have supported BNP's demands. They also announced they would hold protests jointly with the BNP.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/node/541823">Bangladesh: Opposition stages massive protest against PM Sheikh Hasina in Dhaka</a>

The BNP has also demanded the release of&nbsp;Khaleda Zia, the 76-year-old party head and two-time prime minister who has been in jail since being convicted on two counts of corruption in 2018. Protests sparked by an ongoing economic crisis, which has seen power cuts and fuel price hikes, have erupted across the country in recent months.

Fifteen foreign embassies, including Washington's envoy in Dhaka, as well as the United Nations have expressed concerns over the political climate in Bangladesh, one of the fastest-growing economies in Asia.

Bangladesh will hold its next general election in the first week of January in 2024, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, the leader of Awami League had announced.&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Police in Bangladesh arrested Jamaat-e-Islami party chief Shafiqur Rahman in Dhaka. As head of the country's largest Islamist party, Rahman had vowed to join anti-government protests led by Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) to oust the government led by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

Police in Bangladesh arrested Jamaat-e-Islami party chief Shafiqur Rahman in Dhaka. As head of the country's largest Islamist party, Rahman had vowed to join anti-government protests led by Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) to oust the government led by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. A number of Jamaat-e-Islami members were convicted of committing war crimes during Bangladesh Liberation War of 1971 by the International Crimes Tribunal in 2009. Later, five of its top leaders were hanged between 2013 and 2016 for committing war crimes. ALSO READ | Bangladesh to go to polls in Jan 2024, announces Sheikh Hasina, seeking her fifth term Considered far-right radical, the organisation's fronts in India and Sri Lanka have been flagged as security threats in South Asia. In Bangladesh, Jamaat-e-Islami has been banned from contesting elections since 2012. Previously, the Jamaat was a major ally of the right-of-centre main opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), and their coalition ruled the country between 2001-2006. WATCH | South Asia Diary | Bangladesh on the boil × "This is just another episode of the unjust oppression continuing against the party for the last 15 years," Matiur Rahman Akand, Jamaat-e-Islami's publicity secretary, told AFP. Bangladesh's current political climate The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), country's principal opposition party, has demanded that Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina should step down and for a caretaker government to conduct free and fair elections. The opposition alleges that the past two general elections in 2014 and 2018 were rigged and that they do not trust Hasina administration's conduct and if will hold fair elections. Jamaat and several left-leaning and centrist parties have supported BNP's demands. They also announced they would hold protests jointly with the BNP. ALSO READ | Bangladesh: Opposition stages massive protest against PM Sheikh Hasina in Dhaka The BNP has also demanded the release of Khaleda Zia, the 76-year-old party head and two-time prime minister who has been in jail since being convicted on two counts of corruption in 2018. Protests sparked by an ongoing economic crisis, which has seen power cuts and fuel price hikes, have erupted across the country in recent months. Fifteen foreign embassies, including Washington's envoy in Dhaka, as well as the United Nations have expressed concerns over the political climate in Bangladesh, one of the fastest-growing economies in Asia. Bangladesh will hold its next general election in the first week of January in 2024, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, the leader of Awami League had announced. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Bangladesh political unrest: Police arrest radical Jamaat-e-Islami leader Shafiqur Rahman

Bangladesh will hold its next general election in the first week of January in 2024, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, the leader of Awami League, announced at a rally in Dhaka's Cox Bazar on Wednesday.&nbsp;Hasina called on the people to vote for Awami League to continue the developmental momentum of the South Asian nation located right above the Bay of Bengal.&nbsp;

"From 2009 to 2022, there is a democratic process in the country leading to unprecedented development in the country. Bangladesh has got recognition as a developing country," Hasina was quoted as saying by The Daily Star newspaper.&nbsp;

The 75-year-old&nbsp;hit out at former prime minister Khaleda Zia-led Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), alleging that the members of BNP were involved in money laundering.&nbsp;

She also mentioned that Khaleda Zia embezzled the money of an orphanage and for that reason, she had been convicted of corruption for 10 years.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-climate-tracker-around-10-million-without-power-in-bangladesh-528332">WION Climate Tracker: Around 10 million without power in Bangladesh</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-climate-tracker-around-10-million-without-power-in-bangladesh-528332/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

"And her son Tarique Rahman, known for siphoning off the country's money, had been convicted for seven years and fined Taka 20 crore." BNP has alleged that Sheikh Hasina is using state machinery to halt their ways to reach people in the run-up to elections. However, Hasina's party published visuals of the findings of explosives from BNP headquarters.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Police?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Police</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/journalists?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#journalists</a> were compelled to leave the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BNP?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BNP</a> HQ mid-raid after coming across large numbers of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/explosives?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#explosives</a>, at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Nayapaltan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Nayapaltan</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Dhaka?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Dhaka</a>. 
It is thus clear that BNP had no intention of peaceful assembly on 10 December, but rather planned on violence. <a href="https://twitter.com/BDMOFA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BDMOFA</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/sajeebwazed?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@sajeebwazed</a> <a href="https://t.co/az3hnknx5o">pic.twitter.com/az3hnknx5o</a>
— Awami League (@albd1971) <a href="https://twitter.com/albd1971/status/1600522018935304192?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 7, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Meanwhile, the US&nbsp;warned its citizens in Bangladesh of the BNP’s planned Dec 10 rally in Dhaka, saying it is concerned about reports of intimidation and political violence ahead of the next general election.

"You should avoid demonstrations and exercise caution in the vicinity of any large gatherings. Review personal security plans; remain aware of your surroundings, including local events; and monitor local news stations for updates," the US embassy in Dhaka said.&nbsp;

Watching processes to free, fair polls: US envoy to Bangladesh

US envoy to Bangladesh, Peter Haas, said in an interview that Washington calls upon all political parties to respect the rule of law in the run-up to general elections.

"News reports of intimidation and political violence in Bangladesh are disturbing. Free and fair elections cannot take place in such an environment. We call on all parties to respect the rule of law and to refrain from violence, coercion, intimidation, or retribution. Moreover, for journalists to be able to cover the elections freely and fully, they must be protected from harassment and violence," Peter Haas, US ambassador to Bangladesh was quoted as saying by The Daily Star newspaper.&nbsp;

Jatiya Sangsad, the parliament of Bangladesh, consists of 350 seats including 50 seats reserved exclusively for women, a first in a Muslim-majority nation. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's Awami League-led Grand Alliance currently has 302 seats in parliament, followed by Hussain Ershad's Jatiya Party (26) and Khaleda Zia-led Bangladesh Nationalist Party (7).&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Bangladesh will hold its next general election in the first week of January in 2024, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, the leader of Awami League, announced at a rally in Dhaka's Cox Bazar on Wednesday.

Bangladesh will hold its next general election in the first week of January in 2024, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, the leader of Awami League, announced at a rally in Dhaka's Cox Bazar on Wednesday. Hasina called on the people to vote for Awami League to continue the developmental momentum of the South Asian nation located right above the Bay of Bengal. "From 2009 to 2022, there is a democratic process in the country leading to unprecedented development in the country. Bangladesh has got recognition as a developing country," Hasina was quoted as saying by The Daily Star newspaper. The 75-year-old hit out at former prime minister Khaleda Zia-led Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), alleging that the members of BNP were involved in money laundering. She also mentioned that Khaleda Zia embezzled the money of an orphanage and for that reason, she had been convicted of corruption for 10 years. WATCH | WION Climate Tracker: Around 10 million without power in Bangladesh × "And her son Tarique Rahman, known for siphoning off the country's money, had been convicted for seven years and fined Taka 20 crore." BNP has alleged that Sheikh Hasina is using state machinery to halt their ways to reach people in the run-up to elections. However, Hasina's party published visuals of the findings of explosives from BNP headquarters. #Police and #journalists were compelled to leave the #BNP HQ mid-raid after coming across large numbers of #explosives, at #Nayapaltan, #Dhaka. It is thus clear that BNP had no intention of peaceful assembly on 10 December, but rather planned on violence. @BDMOFA @sajeebwazed pic.twitter.com/az3hnknx5o — Awami League (@albd1971) December 7, 2022 × Meanwhile, the US warned its citizens in Bangladesh of the BNP’s planned Dec 10 rally in Dhaka, saying it is concerned about reports of intimidation and political violence ahead of the next general election. "You should avoid demonstrations and exercise caution in the vicinity of any large gatherings. Review personal security plans; remain aware of your surroundings, including local events; and monitor local news stations for updates," the US embassy in Dhaka said. Watching processes to free, fair polls: US envoy to Bangladesh US envoy to Bangladesh, Peter Haas, said in an interview that Washington calls upon all political parties to respect the rule of law in the run-up to general elections. "News reports of intimidation and political violence in Bangladesh are disturbing. Free and fair elections cannot take place in such an environment. We call on all parties to respect the rule of law and to refrain from violence, coercion, intimidation, or retribution. Moreover, for journalists to be able to cover the elections freely and fully, they must be protected from harassment and violence," Peter Haas, US ambassador to Bangladesh was quoted as saying by The Daily Star newspaper. Jatiya Sangsad, the parliament of Bangladesh, consists of 350 seats including 50 seats reserved exclusively for women, a first in a Muslim-majority nation. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's Awami League-led Grand Alliance currently has 302 seats in parliament, followed by Hussain Ershad's Jatiya Party (26) and Khaleda Zia-led Bangladesh Nationalist Party (7). WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Bangladesh to go to polls in Jan 2024, announces Sheikh Hasina, seeking her fifth term

Sheikh Hasina was sworn in as Bangladesh's prime minister for a record fourth term Monday after a crushing election victory marred by <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/un-calls-for-probe-into-bangladesh-elections-188315">deadly violence and claims of widespread rigging</a>.

Hasina, 71, has presided over record economic growth in the South Asian country of 165 million people but critics have accused her of creeping authoritarianism.

Her ruling Awami League party and its allies won the December 30 elections by a landslide, securing 288 seats in the 300-seat parliament compared to just seven for the main opposition.

The campaign saw mass arrests of opposition activists and candidates and allegations of widespread rigging including ballot stuffing and voter intimidation.

Seventeen people were killed on election day.

The European Union has called for a probe into allegations of irregularities, saying "significant obstacles to a level playing field... tainted the electoral campaign and the vote."

The United States expressed concern about "credible reports of harassment, intimidation and violence".

The United Nations on Friday said there were indications that "reprisals" have targeted the opposition since the election, including physical attacks, arbitrary arrests, harassment, disappearances and filing of criminal cases.

The opposition, which last week <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-opposition-boycotts-swearing-in-amid-calls-to-probe-vote-rigging-188025">boycotted the oath-taking ceremony</a> of the newly elected MPs, has demanded fresh polls under a neutral caretaker government -- something Hasina and the election commission have rejected outright.

'Mother of humanity'

President Abdul Hamid administered Hassina'a oath in a ceremony at the presidential palace, Bangabhaban. A 47-member cabinet with many new faces was also sworn in.

To her supporters, Hasina is known as Bangladesh's "mother of humanity" for allowing in hundreds of thousands of Rohingya refugees fleeing a military crackdown in neighbouring Myanmar in 2017.

Opponents accuse her of jailing arch-foe Khaleda Zia on politically motivated charges, of orchestrating mass arrests, enforced disappearances and passing Draconian anti-press freedom laws to try to cling to power.

Hasina was abroad in August 1975 when a group of renegade military officers assassinated her father, Bangladesh's first president Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, his wife and three sons.

She started her political career as a hero of the people, returning from exile in 1981 to take over as Awami League leader and beginning a long struggle to restore democracy in Bangladesh.

Hasina joined forces with Zia's BNP to help oust military dictator Hussain Muhammad Ershad in 1990 but the pair soon fell out and were branded the "Battling Begums".

Their rivalry has dominated Bangladeshi politics for the last 30 years.

Hasina was first elected prime minister in 1996 but she struggled to emerge from the shadow of her father during her first term and lost the 2001 contest.

She returned to power after winning the December 2008 polls by landslide, just months after she was imprisoned by a military-backed government on corruption charges.

She has been in power ever since, presiding over economic expansion of more than six per cent every year since 2009. GDP growth last year was 7.86 per cent and Hasina has promised to take that into double digits.

Sheikh Hasina was sworn in as Bangladesh's prime minister for a record fourth term Monday after a crushing election victory marred by deadly violence and claims of widespread rigging.

Sheikh Hasina was sworn in as Bangladesh's prime minister for a record fourth term Monday after a crushing election victory marred by deadly violence and claims of widespread rigging. Hasina, 71, has presided over record economic growth in the South Asian country of 165 million people but critics have accused her of creeping authoritarianism. Her ruling Awami League party and its allies won the December 30 elections by a landslide, securing 288 seats in the 300-seat parliament compared to just seven for the main opposition. The campaign saw mass arrests of opposition activists and candidates and allegations of widespread rigging including ballot stuffing and voter intimidation. Seventeen people were killed on election day. The European Union has called for a probe into allegations of irregularities, saying "significant obstacles to a level playing field... tainted the electoral campaign and the vote." The United States expressed concern about "credible reports of harassment, intimidation and violence". The United Nations on Friday said there were indications that "reprisals" have targeted the opposition since the election, including physical attacks, arbitrary arrests, harassment, disappearances and filing of criminal cases. The opposition, which last week boycotted the oath-taking ceremony of the newly elected MPs, has demanded fresh polls under a neutral caretaker government -- something Hasina and the election commission have rejected outright. 'Mother of humanity' President Abdul Hamid administered Hassina'a oath in a ceremony at the presidential palace, Bangabhaban. A 47-member cabinet with many new faces was also sworn in. To her supporters, Hasina is known as Bangladesh's "mother of humanity" for allowing in hundreds of thousands of Rohingya refugees fleeing a military crackdown in neighbouring Myanmar in 2017. Opponents accuse her of jailing arch-foe Khaleda Zia on politically motivated charges, of orchestrating mass arrests, enforced disappearances and passing Draconian anti-press freedom laws to try to cling to power. Hasina was abroad in August 1975 when a group of renegade military officers assassinated her father, Bangladesh's first president Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, his wife and three sons. She started her political career as a hero of the people, returning from exile in 1981 to take over as Awami League leader and beginning a long struggle to restore democracy in Bangladesh. Hasina joined forces with Zia's BNP to help oust military dictator Hussain Muhammad Ershad in 1990 but the pair soon fell out and were branded the "Battling Begums". Their rivalry has dominated Bangladeshi politics for the last 30 years. Hasina was first elected prime minister in 1996 but she struggled to emerge from the shadow of her father during her first term and lost the 2001 contest. She returned to power after winning the December 2008 polls by landslide, just months after she was imprisoned by a military-backed government on corruption charges. She has been in power ever since, presiding over economic expansion of more than six per cent every year since 2009. GDP growth last year was 7.86 per cent and Hasina has promised to take that into double digits.

Sheikh Hasina sworn in as Bangladesh PM after 'tainted' polls

Sheikh Hasina will be sworn in as <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/hasina-heading-for-landslide-win-after-deadly-bangladesh-election-day-187386">Bangladeshi prime minister</a> for a record fourth term Monday after a crushing <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/western-powers-call-for-probe-into-bangladesh-election-irregularities-violence-187810">election victory marred by deadly violence</a> and claims of widespread rigging.

Hasina, 71, has presided over record economic growth in the South Asian country of 165 million people but critics have accused her of creeping authoritarianism.

Her ruling Awami League party and its allies won the December 30 elections by a landslide, securing 288 seats in the 300-seat parliament compared to just seven for the main opposition.

The campaign saw mass arrests of opposition activists and candidates and allegations of widespread rigging including ballot stuffing and voter intimidation.

Seventeen people were killed on election day.

The European Union has called for a probe into allegations of irregularities, saying "significant obstacles to a level playing field... tainted the electoral campaign and the vote."

The United States expressed concern about "credible reports of harassment, intimidation and violence".

The United Nations on Friday said there were indications that "reprisals" have targeted the opposition since the election, including physical attacks, arbitrary arrests, harassment, disappearances and filing of criminal cases.

The opposition, which last week boycotted the oath-taking ceremony of the newly elected MPs, has demanded fresh polls under a neutral caretaker government -- something Hasina and the election commission have rejected outright.

'Mother of humanity'

To her supporters, Hasina is known as Bangladesh's "mother of humanity" for allowing in hundreds of thousands of Rohingya refugees fleeing a military crackdown in neighbouring Myanmar in 2017.

Opponents accuse her of jailing arch-foe Khaleda Zia on politically motivated charges, of orchestrating mass arrests, enforced disappearances and passing Draconian anti-press freedom laws to try to cling to power.

Hasina was abroad in August 1975 when a group of renegade military officers assassinated her father, Bangladesh's first president Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, his wife and three sons.

She started her political career as a hero of the people, returning from exile in 1981 to take over as Awami League leader and beginning a long struggle to restore democracy in Bangladesh.

Hasina joined forces with Zia's BNP to help oust military dictator Hussain Muhammad Ershad in 1990 but the pair soon fell out and were branded the "Battling Begums".

Their rivalry has dominated Bangladeshi politics for the last 30 years.

Hasina was first elected prime minister in 1996 but she struggled to emerge from the shadow of her father during her first term and lost the 2001 contest.

She returned to power after winning the December 2008 polls by a landslide, just months after she was imprisoned by a military-backed government on corruption charges.

She has been in power ever since, presiding over the economic expansion of more than six per cent every year since 2009. GDP growth last year was 7.86 per cent and Hasina has promised to take that into double digits.

She was due to be sworn in at 3:30 pm (0930 GMT) along with a 47-member cabinet that includes many new faces.

Sheikh Hasina will be sworn in as Bangladeshi prime minister for a record fourth term Monday after a crushing election victory marred by deadly violence and claims of widespread rigging.

Sheikh Hasina will be sworn in as Bangladeshi prime minister for a record fourth term Monday after a crushing election victory marred by deadly violence and claims of widespread rigging. Hasina, 71, has presided over record economic growth in the South Asian country of 165 million people but critics have accused her of creeping authoritarianism. Her ruling Awami League party and its allies won the December 30 elections by a landslide, securing 288 seats in the 300-seat parliament compared to just seven for the main opposition. The campaign saw mass arrests of opposition activists and candidates and allegations of widespread rigging including ballot stuffing and voter intimidation. Seventeen people were killed on election day. The European Union has called for a probe into allegations of irregularities, saying "significant obstacles to a level playing field... tainted the electoral campaign and the vote." The United States expressed concern about "credible reports of harassment, intimidation and violence". The United Nations on Friday said there were indications that "reprisals" have targeted the opposition since the election, including physical attacks, arbitrary arrests, harassment, disappearances and filing of criminal cases. The opposition, which last week boycotted the oath-taking ceremony of the newly elected MPs, has demanded fresh polls under a neutral caretaker government -- something Hasina and the election commission have rejected outright. 'Mother of humanity' To her supporters, Hasina is known as Bangladesh's "mother of humanity" for allowing in hundreds of thousands of Rohingya refugees fleeing a military crackdown in neighbouring Myanmar in 2017. Opponents accuse her of jailing arch-foe Khaleda Zia on politically motivated charges, of orchestrating mass arrests, enforced disappearances and passing Draconian anti-press freedom laws to try to cling to power. Hasina was abroad in August 1975 when a group of renegade military officers assassinated her father, Bangladesh's first president Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, his wife and three sons. She started her political career as a hero of the people, returning from exile in 1981 to take over as Awami League leader and beginning a long struggle to restore democracy in Bangladesh. Hasina joined forces with Zia's BNP to help oust military dictator Hussain Muhammad Ershad in 1990 but the pair soon fell out and were branded the "Battling Begums". Their rivalry has dominated Bangladeshi politics for the last 30 years. Hasina was first elected prime minister in 1996 but she struggled to emerge from the shadow of her father during her first term and lost the 2001 contest. She returned to power after winning the December 2008 polls by a landslide, just months after she was imprisoned by a military-backed government on corruption charges. She has been in power ever since, presiding over the economic expansion of more than six per cent every year since 2009. GDP growth last year was 7.86 per cent and Hasina has promised to take that into double digits. She was due to be sworn in at 3:30 pm (0930 GMT) along with a 47-member cabinet that includes many new faces.

Sheikh Hasina to be sworn in as Bangladesh PM after polls

Amid reports of violence and alleged human rights violations in Bangladesh during the December 30 general elections, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) has called for those responsible for the violence to be held to account.

The OHCHR has also stated that the arrest of journalists under the Digital Security Act suppresses free speech and expression.&nbsp;

"There are credible reports of fatalities and numerous injuries on polling day alone," OHCHR spokesperson Ravina Shamdasani said in Geneva on Friday.

The OHCHR's remark comes nearly a week after Bangladesh's ruling Awami League secured a landslide victory in the general elections, an outcome rejected by opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) which demanded fresh polls.

The election was marred by violence, in which 17 people were killed.

"There are worrying indications that reprisals have continued to take place, notably against the political opposition, including physical attacks and ill-treatment, arbitrary arrests, harassment, disappearances and filing of criminal cases,"&nbsp;Shamdasani said, noting reports of disproportionate "violent attacks and intimidation" by ruling party activists and in some cases with the involvement of law enforcement officials.&nbsp;

Shamdasani cited reports of media intimidation and property damage, as well as other constraints that have hindered free and public reporting on the elections.&nbsp;

She asserted that at least two journalists covering the election have been arrested under the 2018 Digital Security Act, which, according to news reports, suppresses free speech and press freedom.

Moreover, since December 10, at least 54 news and other websites have been blocked, and temporary internet restrictions around election day have constrained freedom of expression.

Pointing to reports of police breaking up peaceful protests demanding re-election, and arrests under laws such as the Digital Security Act, she said that the space for human rights defenders and organisations, political opposition and the general public, to speak out about the election had become "restricted".&nbsp;

"Restrictive legislation, including this Act, should be reformed so that human rights defenders, civil society, journalists and all members of the public are protected in their exercise of the freedoms of expression, peaceful assembly and association and engage freely in debating the election and Bangladesh's democratic and development processes," the OHCHR spokesperson said.

The UN agency urged the authorities to carry out "prompt, independent, impartial and effective investigations" into all alleged violence and human rights violations surrounding the elections, and to hold those responsible accountable, "regardless of their political affiliations".

OHCHR also encouraged the National Human Rights Commission to play an independent and proactive role.&nbsp;

"We call on the authorities to take urgent measures to prevent further reprisals, and to ensure that law enforcement authorities exercise their powers strictly in accordance with the rule of law and principles of legality and proportionality," Shamdasani said.

Amid reports of violence and alleged human rights violations in Bangladesh during the December 30 general elections, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) has called for those responsible for the violence to be held to account.

Amid reports of violence and alleged human rights violations in Bangladesh during the December 30 general elections, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) has called for those responsible for the violence to be held to account. The OHCHR has also stated that the arrest of journalists under the Digital Security Act suppresses free speech and expression. "There are credible reports of fatalities and numerous injuries on polling day alone," OHCHR spokesperson Ravina Shamdasani said in Geneva on Friday. The OHCHR's remark comes nearly a week after Bangladesh's ruling Awami League secured a landslide victory in the general elections, an outcome rejected by opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) which demanded fresh polls. The election was marred by violence, in which 17 people were killed. "There are worrying indications that reprisals have continued to take place, notably against the political opposition, including physical attacks and ill-treatment, arbitrary arrests, harassment, disappearances and filing of criminal cases," Shamdasani said, noting reports of disproportionate "violent attacks and intimidation" by ruling party activists and in some cases with the involvement of law enforcement officials. Shamdasani cited reports of media intimidation and property damage, as well as other constraints that have hindered free and public reporting on the elections. She asserted that at least two journalists covering the election have been arrested under the 2018 Digital Security Act, which, according to news reports, suppresses free speech and press freedom. Moreover, since December 10, at least 54 news and other websites have been blocked, and temporary internet restrictions around election day have constrained freedom of expression. Pointing to reports of police breaking up peaceful protests demanding re-election, and arrests under laws such as the Digital Security Act, she said that the space for human rights defenders and organisations, political opposition and the general public, to speak out about the election had become "restricted". "Restrictive legislation, including this Act, should be reformed so that human rights defenders, civil society, journalists and all members of the public are protected in their exercise of the freedoms of expression, peaceful assembly and association and engage freely in debating the election and Bangladesh's democratic and development processes," the OHCHR spokesperson said. The UN agency urged the authorities to carry out "prompt, independent, impartial and effective investigations" into all alleged violence and human rights violations surrounding the elections, and to hold those responsible accountable, "regardless of their political affiliations". OHCHR also encouraged the National Human Rights Commission to play an independent and proactive role. "We call on the authorities to take urgent measures to prevent further reprisals, and to ensure that law enforcement authorities exercise their powers strictly in accordance with the rule of law and principles of legality and proportionality," Shamdasani said.

Hold those responsible accountable for 'violent attacks and intimidation' in Bangladesh election: UN

The United Nations on Friday called for an independent and impartial investigation into the December 30 <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-slams-us-statement-over-polls-observers-186042">election in Bangladesh</a> in which Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina won a third straight term amid accusations of violence and voting irregularities.&nbsp;

Hasina's ruling alliance won more than 90 per cent of the seats contested in <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/un-asks-bangladesh-political-parties-to-ensure-peaceful-post-electoral-environment-187907">Sunday's election</a>, which was marred by accusations of ballot stuffing, voter intimidation and violence that killed at least 19 people.&nbsp;

Opponents rejected the election result but Hasina and her Awami League have denied any impropriety, saying that the vote was peaceful and there was enthusiastic participation from her supporters.

"We urge the authorities to carry out prompt, independent, impartial and effective investigations into all alleged acts of violence and human rights violations related to the elections, with a view to holding accountable those responsible, regardless of their political affiliations," the United Nations said.

On Thursday, newly elected members of parliament, including Hasina, were sworn in, but the seven opposition members stayed away, saying the results were rigged and calling for a new election.

"There are worrying indications that reprisals have continued to take place, notably against the political opposition, including physical attacks and ill-treatment, arbitrary arrests, harassment, disappearances and filing of criminal cases," the United Nations said.

"Reports suggest that violent attacks and intimidation, including against minorities, have been disproportionately carried out by ruling party activists, at times with complicity or involvement of law enforcement officers."

The United Nations called on the authorities to take urgent measures to prevent further reprisals, and to ensure that law enforcement authorities exercised their powers in accordance with the rule of law.

It also urged the National Human Rights Commission to play an independent and proactive role.

Western governments, including the United States and the European Union, have condemned the election-day violence and called for an investigation into a range of irregularities.&nbsp;

On Thursday, New York-based Human Rights Watch said the run-up to the vote was characterised by "violence and intimidation against the opposition ... and the misuse of laws to limit free speech".&nbsp;

The United Nations on Friday called for an independent and impartial investigation into the December 30 election in Bangladesh in which Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina won a third straight term amid accusations of violence and voting irregularities.

The United Nations on Friday called for an independent and impartial investigation into the December 30 election in Bangladesh in which Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina won a third straight term amid accusations of violence and voting irregularities. Hasina's ruling alliance won more than 90 per cent of the seats contested in Sunday's election, which was marred by accusations of ballot stuffing, voter intimidation and violence that killed at least 19 people. Opponents rejected the election result but Hasina and her Awami League have denied any impropriety, saying that the vote was peaceful and there was enthusiastic participation from her supporters. "We urge the authorities to carry out prompt, independent, impartial and effective investigations into all alleged acts of violence and human rights violations related to the elections, with a view to holding accountable those responsible, regardless of their political affiliations," the United Nations said. On Thursday, newly elected members of parliament, including Hasina, were sworn in, but the seven opposition members stayed away, saying the results were rigged and calling for a new election. "There are worrying indications that reprisals have continued to take place, notably against the political opposition, including physical attacks and ill-treatment, arbitrary arrests, harassment, disappearances and filing of criminal cases," the United Nations said. "Reports suggest that violent attacks and intimidation, including against minorities, have been disproportionately carried out by ruling party activists, at times with complicity or involvement of law enforcement officers." The United Nations called on the authorities to take urgent measures to prevent further reprisals, and to ensure that law enforcement authorities exercised their powers in accordance with the rule of law. It also urged the National Human Rights Commission to play an independent and proactive role. Western governments, including the United States and the European Union, have condemned the election-day violence and called for an investigation into a range of irregularities. On Thursday, New York-based Human Rights Watch said the run-up to the vote was characterised by "violence and intimidation against the opposition ... and the misuse of laws to limit free speech".

UN calls for probe into Bangladesh elections

bangladesh-elections

Bangladesh Elections, News on Bangladesh Elections, stories on Bangladesh Elections, articles on Bangladesh Elections, Bangladesh Elections stories at Wion, Bangladesh Elections news, Bangladesh Elections latest news

bangladesh elections

Bangladesh: Sheikh Hasina all set for fifth term, election officials say 'voting was peaceful'

Bangladesh General Elections: PM Sheikh Hasina's Awami league set for fourth consecutive term

Bangladesh General Elections: Opposition BNP and allies parties boycott polls

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

Bangladesh General Elections: Sheikh Hasina's Awami league set for fourth consecutive term

Bangladesh General Elections: Bangladesh goes to poll amid boycott and strikes

Bangladesh General Elections: Voting underway with main Opposition boycotting polls

Bangladesh General Elections: PM Sheikh Hasina set to get another term in absence of main opposition

Bangladesh General Elections: Nationalist parties boycotts parliamentary elections

Bangladesh General Elections: The politics of Bangladesh

Bangladesh Election 2024: Does this election matter?

The Capitals: Dhaka's tryst with PM Sheikh Hasina-styled democracy

Bangladesh General Elections: 18.5% voter turnout recorder till noon

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

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

Bangladesh General Elections: Opposition BNP and allies parties boycott polls

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

Elections will be free, fair, transparent and credible, Bangladesh FM Momen tells WION

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

Sheikh Hasina using father Mujibur Rahman to keep grip over Bangladesh politics?

Bangladesh elections 2024: PM Sheikh Hasina-led 14 party alliance to head to polls

Bangladesh’s ‘autocratic lockdown’ sees over 10,000 activists behind bars: HRW

US says will impose visa restrictions on individuals 'undermining' Bangladesh elections

Bangladesh promises free, fair elections in response to US visa curbs

US says will restricts visas for Bangladeshi nationals, PM Hasina accused of vote manipulation

Bangladesh political unrest: Police arrest radical Jamaat-e-Islami leader Shafiqur Rahman