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

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

Bangladesh 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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What do voters want in Bangladesh?

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.

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

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

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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?

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

Bangladesh Politics Explainer: Sheikh Hasina's political journey

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

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

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

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

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

Bangladesh court sentences Muhammad Yunus of violating labour laws

A good number of central leaders of the Awami League, members of the cabinet, lawmakers of the 11th parliament, and even candidates from other parties are facing challenges from independent candidates in almost 90 constituencies across the country, according to insiders of the ruling party.

18 Awami League MPs to contest Bangladesh Parliamentary polls as independents

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

Bangladesh's main opposition party gives non-cooperation call

Bangladesh Nationalist Party launches non-cooperation movement

As Bangladesh gears up for its national elections in January 2024, the absence of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), the main opposition party in the South Asian nation,&nbsp;is raising questions about the political dynamics of the country.&nbsp;

The BNP's decision to boycott the 12th parliamentary elections next year, accusing the ruling Awami League of trying to rig the polls, comes on the heels of a series of developments, including clashes during a BNP rally, resulting in the imprisonment of top brass of Opposition leaders by the government led by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.&nbsp;

Among those who were put behind bars was the 75-year-old BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, who had been leading the party in Khaleda Zia's absence.&nbsp;Jamaat-e-Islami party chief Shafiqur Rahman is already in jail and is facing charges of violence.&nbsp;

BNP has been demanding to hold elections under a caretaker government but Hasina's party says it is against the law.

With the BNP opting out of the January elections, many are expressing concerns about the possibility of lopsided elections in Bangladesh, an argument which the Awami League was quick to brush off saying that many others are still in the race.

A total of 26 out of the 44 officially registered political parties have opted to participate in the elections while 14 parties have chosen to boycott.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-protesters-set-train-on-fire-amid-opposition-strike-four-killed-671662">Bangladesh protesters set train on fire amid opposition strike, four killed</a>

Bangladesh Parliament, also known as Jatiya Sangsad, has 350 seats.&nbsp;

Hasina's party has announced that it will field candidates for 263 seats in the 2024 elections. The Awami League has left 26 seats for the Jatiya Party, and six for its allies in the 14 Party Alliance.

<h2>Will Awami League be re-elected?&nbsp;</h2>

Former Indian Ambassador to Bangladesh, Veena Sikri, told WION that smaller parties may participate, but the absence of major players like BNP and Jamaat-e-Islami, which the court barred from elections, appears to favour the Awami League's return to power.

"Smaller parties will get some seats, but they won't be in competition with the Awami League," noted&nbsp;Ambassador Sikri.

There are some reports which suggest that Islamist groups will be on the rise if the BNP opts out.

It points to the vacuum in the BNP leadership, with Khaleda Zia sick and her eldest son Tarique Rahman living in exile in London since September 2008. There is apprehension that Islamist groups might get more active in the party.&nbsp;

Former diplomat Sikri expressed concerns about the continuing pace of radicalisation in Bangladesh, despite efforts by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to address the issue. She noted that BNP and Jamaat e-Islami, the party that has contributed to the rise of radicalisation in Bangladesh, are on the same page.&nbsp;

The former diplomat highlighted that the senior leaders from Jamaat had earlier occupied significant positions within the then-BNP-led government.&nbsp;

While expressing dismay over the violence seething in Bangladesh by the opposition as&nbsp;a train was being set on fire Tuesday (Dec 19) killing four, including a mother and her son, the former ambassador said, "BNP should be urged to take part in the elections as creating a ruckus will only lead to loss of infrastructure. There is a need for mature elections."&nbsp;

"The process of radicalisation at the grassroots level is a big factor in Bangladesh, which is worrying," said&nbsp;Sikri.

"Sheikh Hasina has taken action against it and I would hope that such action would continue but I do not know how much effect did it have on the process of radicalisation. Because you do have the banned Islamist groups which are underground. The police know about it and they take action against these groups."&nbsp;

Recalling the Holey Artisan Bakery attack in Dhaka in 2016 where at least 22 people were reportedly killed by militants, Ambassador Sikri said, "After that, there was a lot of action."

"Students, farmers, and media should try to bring out the relationship between India and Bangladesh purely as a way of mutual benefit and not based on the role of religion and radicalisation. That should be completely kept out," the diplomat said. &nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/2024-bangladesh-general-election-why-is-opposition-calling-for-a-boycott-of-the-january-election-671778">2024 Bangladesh general election: Why is opposition calling for a boycott of the January election?</a>

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Speaking over the upcoming elections, the former Secretary (East) at the Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) Anil Wadhwa told WION, "BNP is not a serious challenger to the ruling party despite them being aggressive in organising mass protests. Hence a boycott and a combination of the boycott with the top leadership not being in contention is only going to help the ruling party."

"Sheikh Hasina seems more confident of winning the elections as the date of the hustings approaches. The people of Bangladesh would also not like to see the economy suffer and protests paralyse&nbsp;the&nbsp;country."&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

As Bangladesh gears up for its national elections in January 2024, the absence of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), the main opposition party in the South Asian nation, is raising questions about the political dynamics of the country.

As Bangladesh gears up for its national elections in January 2024, the absence of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), the main opposition party in the South Asian nation, is raising questions about the political dynamics of the country. The BNP's decision to boycott the 12th parliamentary elections next year, accusing the ruling Awami League of trying to rig the polls, comes on the heels of a series of developments, including clashes during a BNP rally, resulting in the imprisonment of top brass of Opposition leaders by the government led by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Among those who were put behind bars was the 75-year-old BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, who had been leading the party in Khaleda Zia's absence. Jamaat-e-Islami party chief Shafiqur Rahman is already in jail and is facing charges of violence. BNP has been demanding to hold elections under a caretaker government but Hasina's party says it is against the law. With the BNP opting out of the January elections, many are expressing concerns about the possibility of lopsided elections in Bangladesh, an argument which the Awami League was quick to brush off saying that many others are still in the race. A total of 26 out of the 44 officially registered political parties have opted to participate in the elections while 14 parties have chosen to boycott. Also Read | Bangladesh protesters set train on fire amid opposition strike, four killed Bangladesh Parliament, also known as Jatiya Sangsad, has 350 seats. Hasina's party has announced that it will field candidates for 263 seats in the 2024 elections. The Awami League has left 26 seats for the Jatiya Party, and six for its allies in the 14 Party Alliance. Will Awami League be re-elected? Former Indian Ambassador to Bangladesh, Veena Sikri, told WION that smaller parties may participate, but the absence of major players like BNP and Jamaat-e-Islami, which the court barred from elections, appears to favour the Awami League's return to power. "Smaller parties will get some seats, but they won't be in competition with the Awami League," noted Ambassador Sikri. There are some reports which suggest that Islamist groups will be on the rise if the BNP opts out. It points to the vacuum in the BNP leadership, with Khaleda Zia sick and her eldest son Tarique Rahman living in exile in London since September 2008. There is apprehension that Islamist groups might get more active in the party. Former diplomat Sikri expressed concerns about the continuing pace of radicalisation in Bangladesh, despite efforts by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to address the issue. She noted that BNP and Jamaat e-Islami, the party that has contributed to the rise of radicalisation in Bangladesh, are on the same page. The former diplomat highlighted that the senior leaders from Jamaat had earlier occupied significant positions within the then-BNP-led government. While expressing dismay over the violence seething in Bangladesh by the opposition as a train was being set on fire Tuesday (Dec 19) killing four, including a mother and her son, the former ambassador said, "BNP should be urged to take part in the elections as creating a ruckus will only lead to loss of infrastructure. There is a need for mature elections." "The process of radicalisation at the grassroots level is a big factor in Bangladesh, which is worrying," said Sikri. "Sheikh Hasina has taken action against it and I would hope that such action would continue but I do not know how much effect did it have on the process of radicalisation. Because you do have the banned Islamist groups which are underground. The police know about it and they take action against these groups." Recalling the Holey Artisan Bakery attack in Dhaka in 2016 where at least 22 people were reportedly killed by militants, Ambassador Sikri said, "After that, there was a lot of action." "Students, farmers, and media should try to bring out the relationship between India and Bangladesh purely as a way of mutual benefit and not based on the role of religion and radicalisation. That should be completely kept out," the diplomat said. Watch | 2024 Bangladesh general election: Why is opposition calling for a boycott of the January election? × Speaking over the upcoming elections, the former Secretary (East) at the Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) Anil Wadhwa told WION, "BNP is not a serious challenger to the ruling party despite them being aggressive in organising mass protests. Hence a boycott and a combination of the boycott with the top leadership not being in contention is only going to help the ruling party." "Sheikh Hasina seems more confident of winning the elections as the date of the hustings approaches. The people of Bangladesh would also not like to see the economy suffer and protests paralyse the country."

Lopsided elections ahead? BNP’s boycott casts shadow on Bangladesh’s polls

2024 Bangladesh general election: Bangladesh's main opposition party urged voters on Wednesday to boycott next year's general election. The BNP reiterated demands for Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to step down. BNP called the upcoming election a "one-sided dummy election".

2024 Bangladesh general election: Why is opposition calling for a boycott of the January election?

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

Bangladesh National Party wants PM Sheikh Hasina to step down

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

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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

With elections on Jan 7, Bangladesh's key opposition party stares at a potentially leaderless election. Will their bid to dethrone Sheikh Hasina succeed?

Bangladesh election: Key opposition party stares at leadership void | Race To Power

Bangladesh's main opposition party is boycotting the polls going to be held in January. This is going to create a ground for geo-political face-off.

Bangladesh: Elections minus opposition? Main opposition party to boycott Jan poll

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 election season is on political unrest is posing high risk to Bangladesh economy. Policy Research Institute, a nonprofit research organization suggests that government promises of economic policy changes after elections could alleviate these concerns. The scale and depth of current challenges mean more significant actions are required to avoid further worsening of macroeconomic conditions in Bangladesh.

Bangladesh political crisis: Bangladesh faces cost of living pressure and low reserve

Bangladesh&nbsp;police have arrested nearly 8,000 opposition figures in a nationwide crackdown since officers broke up a major rally in the capital a week ago, a report said Sunday (Nov 5).

The sweeping wave of detentions comes ahead of a general election due in January.

The country's major opposition,&nbsp;Bangladesh&nbsp;Nationalist Party (BNP), and its allies have been staging giant rallies in recent months demanding Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina step down and allow a neutral government to supervise the vote.

Hasina has overseen impressive growth in her 15 years of power, but she has been accused of ruling the South Asian nation with an iron fist.

The United States has imposed sanctions on some of its most senior police figures for widespread human rights violations.

More than 100,000 opposition supporters joined a "grand rally" in central Dhaka last Saturday, when a policeman was killed in clashes.

Since then police have launched a widespread crackdown on the BNP, arresting thousands of activists and accusing at least 162 of its top leaders of murdering the officer.

Watch:&nbsp;Bangladesh's clean turmeric campaign: Nationwide drive against turmeric adulteration

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The country's best-read and most respected newspaper Prothom Alo reported Sunday that at least 7,835 people had been held, based on reports from its correspondents across the country.

National police spokesman Abir Siddique Shuvra, could not give AFP an exact number of detentions, but said those arrested faced criminal cases and warrants.

"It is impossible to give an exact figure. Police are doing our regular work," he said.

The Dhaka Metropolitan Police previously said that it had arrested more than 2,100 people over charges of violence since last Saturday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-2023-after-bangladesh-sri-lanka-also-cancel-training-due-to-delhi-pollution-655043">Also read:&nbsp;World Cup 2023: After Bangladesh, Sri Lanka also cancel training due to Delhi pollution</a>

According to the BNP, those detained include its top official in&nbsp;Bangladesh, Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, and his number two Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury.

On Sunday the country's Rapid Action Battalion, arrested BNP vice president Altaf Hossain Chowdhury, a former home minister and air force chief.

The arrests came as BNP has enforced a new 48-hour long nationwide transport blockade as part of its new anti-government protests, bringing inter-city bus and lorry transport almost to a halt.

At least 11 buses were torched over the weekend, a fire service spokesman said.

Police say that as well as the officer, at least four people have been killed since last Saturday, while according to the BNP at least nine of its activists have died and more than 3,000 been injured.

The resurgent opposition has been mounting protests against Hasina since September last year, despite its ailing chairperson Khaleda Zia being effectively under house arrest since her release from prison after a conviction on corruption charges.

Hasina's ruling Awami League dominates the legislature in&nbsp;Bangladesh&nbsp;and runs it virtually as a rubber stamp.

Her&nbsp;security forces are accused of detaining tens of thousands of opposition activists, killing hundreds in extrajudicial encounters and disappearing hundreds of leaders and supporters.

(With inputs from agencies)

Bangladesh police have arrested nearly 8,000 opposition figures in a nationwide crackdown since officers broke up a major rally in the capital a week ago, a report said Sunday (Nov 5).

Bangladesh police have arrested nearly 8,000 opposition figures in a nationwide crackdown since officers broke up a major rally in the capital a week ago, a report said Sunday (Nov 5). The sweeping wave of detentions comes ahead of a general election due in January. The country's major opposition, Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), and its allies have been staging giant rallies in recent months demanding Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina step down and allow a neutral government to supervise the vote. Hasina has overseen impressive growth in her 15 years of power, but she has been accused of ruling the South Asian nation with an iron fist. The United States has imposed sanctions on some of its most senior police figures for widespread human rights violations. More than 100,000 opposition supporters joined a "grand rally" in central Dhaka last Saturday, when a policeman was killed in clashes. Since then police have launched a widespread crackdown on the BNP, arresting thousands of activists and accusing at least 162 of its top leaders of murdering the officer. Watch: Bangladesh's clean turmeric campaign: Nationwide drive against turmeric adulteration × The country's best-read and most respected newspaper Prothom Alo reported Sunday that at least 7,835 people had been held, based on reports from its correspondents across the country. National police spokesman Abir Siddique Shuvra, could not give AFP an exact number of detentions, but said those arrested faced criminal cases and warrants. "It is impossible to give an exact figure. Police are doing our regular work," he said. The Dhaka Metropolitan Police previously said that it had arrested more than 2,100 people over charges of violence since last Saturday. Also read: World Cup 2023: After Bangladesh, Sri Lanka also cancel training due to Delhi pollution According to the BNP, those detained include its top official in Bangladesh, Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, and his number two Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury. On Sunday the country's Rapid Action Battalion, arrested BNP vice president Altaf Hossain Chowdhury, a former home minister and air force chief. The arrests came as BNP has enforced a new 48-hour long nationwide transport blockade as part of its new anti-government protests, bringing inter-city bus and lorry transport almost to a halt. At least 11 buses were torched over the weekend, a fire service spokesman said. Police say that as well as the officer, at least four people have been killed since last Saturday, while according to the BNP at least nine of its activists have died and more than 3,000 been injured. The resurgent opposition has been mounting protests against Hasina since September last year, despite its ailing chairperson Khaleda Zia being effectively under house arrest since her release from prison after a conviction on corruption charges. Hasina's ruling Awami League dominates the legislature in Bangladesh and runs it virtually as a rubber stamp. Her security forces are accused of detaining tens of thousands of opposition activists, killing hundreds in extrajudicial encounters and disappearing hundreds of leaders and supporters. (With inputs from agencies)

Bangladesh: 8,000 opposition figures arrested amid raging political crisis ahead of elections

Bangladesh where weeks of mounting political tensions have erupted in protests and bloodshed in Bangladesh. Ahead of the upcoming general Bangladesh is on the edge, the main opposition party in the country has intensified its protests, calling on the PM Sheikh Hasina to resign.

Bangladesh's clean turmeric campaign: Nationwide drive against turmeric adulteration

Bangladesh: Will world's longest-serving women Prime Minister retain her seat in 2024?

Bangladesh police arrest nearly 8,000 Opposition supporters | Over 2,100 arrested following clashes

The death toll due to the raging Israel-Hamas war is nearing 11,000 at the time of filing The Capitals this week, and is set to rise further with no ceasefire in sight. The US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is back in West Asia.&nbsp;On Nov 5, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/blinken-makes-surprise-west-bank-visit-meets-palestinian-president-abbas-655424">Blinken&nbsp;met the Palestine Authority President Mahmoud Abbas</a> in Ramallah — the de-facto administrative capital of Palestinian territories, and thus&nbsp;a step towards the resumption of US-mediated dialogue towards ceasefire.

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/11/05/391323-succession-2023-11-05t180317089.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

The previous such effort failed last time when Blinken was to ensure a four-way summit between the US President Joe Biden and the leaders of Egypt, Jordan, Palestine Authority.

Biden had then <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spotlight-on-washingtons-waning-political-capital-after-gaza-hospital-blast-sinks-bidens-jordan-summit-648187">returned from West Asia</a> after meeting Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the leaders in Tel Aviv.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Unlike the war in Ukraine, in Gaza, there is no impasse. Israeli troops know in and out of Gaza Strip, having left it just 18 years ago in 2005.&nbsp;Reports in Israeli media suggest that a forward-plan has been prepared if any attempt for ceasefire fails. Washington wants Gaza in Palestine Authority's control, once&nbsp;— or if (and that is a big if)&nbsp;— Israel manages to dismantle Hamas, as is its stated goal.&nbsp;

This is all you need to know from the capitals of Israel and the United States. Here's what else you need to know.&nbsp;

<h2>Beijing, China</h2>

<img alt="China's Central Military Commission Vice Chairman Zhang Youxia and Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu arrive for the Beijing Xiangshan Forum on October 30 | Reuters" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="39a5018f-d3b4-477c-b70b-b1fe5287cedd" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2858%29_0.png" />

China's Central Military Commission Vice Chairman Zhang Youxia and Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu arrive for the Beijing Xiangshan Forum on October 30 | Reuters

Delegations from more than&nbsp;100 countries met&nbsp;at a Beijing military forum where Washington was slammed by the host Beijing&nbsp;— apart from Moscow&nbsp;— as a global agent of instability.&nbsp;"The Western policy of steady escalation of the conflict with Russia carries the threat of a direct military clash between nuclear powers, which is fraught with catastrophic consequences,"&nbsp;Russia’s defence minister, Sergei Shoigu said. The view was echoed by&nbsp;Zhang Youxia,&nbsp;the vice chairman of China’s Central Military Commission, who accused&nbsp;"some countries" of "deliberately creating turbulence and interference in other countries’ internal affairs".&nbsp;

The Xiangshan Forum is usually&nbsp;hosted by China’s defence minister but occurred without one as, Li Shangfu, was fired last week without explanation following a nearly two-month absence.&nbsp;

<h2>Nairobi, Kenya</h2>

<img alt="Britain's King Charles sits on the beach with community elders during a visit to the Kuruwitu Marine Conservation Reserve as part of his state visit to Kenya" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="85783a23-3de1-4131-b72d-2f32e907d725" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2859%29_2.png" />

Britain's King Charles sits on the beach with community elders during a visit to the Kuruwitu Marine Conservation Reserve as part of his state visit to Kenya | Reuters

The colonial-era abuses committed in the name of Elizabeth II, then the Queen of England, came back to demand their place in history this week. King Charles III faced scrutiny for his reluctance to offer restitution or a comprehensive apology. He met with families and representatives of Kenya's independence movement, attempting to address these concerns in Nairobi.&nbsp;

Kenyans expressed disappointment in King Charles's "greatest sorrow and deepest regret" statement regarding colonial atrocities committed by British forces, considering it insufficient. President William Ruto described Britain's colonial suppression of Kenya's freedom movement as "monstrous in its cruelty."

The Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC) maintains that during the 1952–1960 Mau Mau uprising, also known as "the emergency," approximately 90,000 Kenyans were killed or injured, with 160,000 imprisoned, many enduring torture. UN investigators noted that British colonialists also violated the human rights of hundreds of thousands in western Kenya over decades through actions like homicides, sexual assault, and land theft.

<h2>Dhaka, Bangladesh</h2>

<img alt="Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina | Reuters" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a5a02cd4-084e-409c-a53d-09a4aee8db0c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2860%29_1.png" />

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina | Reuters

Nineteen. That's the number of reported assassination attempts the world's longest-serving female head of the state, Bangladesh's Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, has reportedly faced so far. But in the recent past, armed supporters of the main opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) have clashed with the security forces. The BNP has vowed to boycott the election as they had in 2014 and 2018 unless a caretaker government&nbsp;— just like the one which has been formed in Pakistan before scheduled February elections&nbsp;— is formed by Hasina's government.&nbsp;

But all is not well as Hasina suggests. More than 100,000 people took to the streets in the latest protest against Sheikh Hasina over the weekend.

The western media has reported that the country has taken "an authoritarian turn" under Hasina and her Awami League party; a charge Hasina's party has denied.&nbsp;

The last two elections were condemned by the United States, European Union and others for irregularities, including stuffed ballot boxes.

She won 84 per cent and 82 per cent of the vote&nbsp;respectively.

Hasina told TIME magazine she is confident that Bangladesh will elect her again in January polls.&nbsp;

Bangladesh is the largest single contributor to United Nations peacekeepers and regularly joins exercises with the US Indo-Pacific Command.

Under Hasina, Bangladesh has gone from struggling to feed its people to a food exporter with a GDP rising from $71 billion in 2006 to $460 billion in 2022, making it South Asia’s second largest economy after India.

Having already won more elections than Britain's Margaret Thatcher or India's Indira Gandhi, Hasina is determined that she will win again.&nbsp; 
 
"I am confident that my people are with me."

The death toll due to the raging Israel-Hamas war is nearing 11,000 at the time of filing The Capitals this week, and is set to rise further with no ceasefire in sight.

The death toll due to the raging Israel-Hamas war is nearing 11,000 at the time of filing The Capitals this week, and is set to rise further with no ceasefire in sight. The US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is back in West Asia. On Nov 5, Blinken met the Palestine Authority President Mahmoud Abbas in Ramallah — the de-facto administrative capital of Palestinian territories, and thus a step towards the resumption of US-mediated dialogue towards ceasefire. The previous such effort failed last time when Blinken was to ensure a four-way summit between the US President Joe Biden and the leaders of Egypt, Jordan, Palestine Authority. Biden had then returned from West Asia after meeting Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the leaders in Tel Aviv. Unlike the war in Ukraine, in Gaza, there is no impasse. Israeli troops know in and out of Gaza Strip, having left it just 18 years ago in 2005. Reports in Israeli media suggest that a forward-plan has been prepared if any attempt for ceasefire fails. Washington wants Gaza in Palestine Authority's control, once — or if (and that is a big if) — Israel manages to dismantle Hamas, as is its stated goal. This is all you need to know from the capitals of Israel and the United States. Here's what else you need to know. Beijing, China China's Central Military Commission Vice Chairman Zhang Youxia and Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu arrive for the Beijing Xiangshan Forum on October 30 | Reuters Delegations from more than 100 countries met at a Beijing military forum where Washington was slammed by the host Beijing — apart from Moscow — as a global agent of instability. "The Western policy of steady escalation of the conflict with Russia carries the threat of a direct military clash between nuclear powers, which is fraught with catastrophic consequences," Russia’s defence minister, Sergei Shoigu said. The view was echoed by Zhang Youxia, the vice chairman of China’s Central Military Commission, who accused "some countries" of "deliberately creating turbulence and interference in other countries’ internal affairs". The Xiangshan Forum is usually hosted by China’s defence minister but occurred without one as, Li Shangfu, was fired last week without explanation following a nearly two-month absence. Nairobi, Kenya Britain's King Charles sits on the beach with community elders during a visit to the Kuruwitu Marine Conservation Reserve as part of his state visit to Kenya | Reuters The colonial-era abuses committed in the name of Elizabeth II, then the Queen of England, came back to demand their place in history this week. King Charles III faced scrutiny for his reluctance to offer restitution or a comprehensive apology. He met with families and representatives of Kenya's independence movement, attempting to address these concerns in Nairobi. Kenyans expressed disappointment in King Charles's "greatest sorrow and deepest regret" statement regarding colonial atrocities committed by British forces, considering it insufficient. President William Ruto described Britain's colonial suppression of Kenya's freedom movement as "monstrous in its cruelty." The Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC) maintains that during the 1952–1960 Mau Mau uprising, also known as "the emergency," approximately 90,000 Kenyans were killed or injured, with 160,000 imprisoned, many enduring torture. UN investigators noted that British colonialists also violated the human rights of hundreds of thousands in western Kenya over decades through actions like homicides, sexual assault, and land theft. Dhaka, Bangladesh Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina | Reuters Nineteen. That's the number of reported assassination attempts the world's longest-serving female head of the state, Bangladesh's Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, has reportedly faced so far. But in the recent past, armed supporters of the main opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) have clashed with the security forces. The BNP has vowed to boycott the election as they had in 2014 and 2018 unless a caretaker government — just like the one which has been formed in Pakistan before scheduled February elections — is formed by Hasina's government. But all is not well as Hasina suggests. More than 100,000 people took to the streets in the latest protest against Sheikh Hasina over the weekend. The western media has reported that the country has taken "an authoritarian turn" under Hasina and her Awami League party; a charge Hasina's party has denied. The last two elections were condemned by the United States, European Union and others for irregularities, including stuffed ballot boxes. She won 84 per cent and 82 per cent of the vote respectively. Hasina told TIME magazine she is confident that Bangladesh will elect her again in January polls. Bangladesh is the largest single contributor to United Nations peacekeepers and regularly joins exercises with the US Indo-Pacific Command. Under Hasina, Bangladesh has gone from struggling to feed its people to a food exporter with a GDP rising from $71 billion in 2006 to $460 billion in 2022, making it South Asia’s second largest economy after India. Having already won more elections than Britain's Margaret Thatcher or India's Indira Gandhi, Hasina is determined that she will win again. "I am confident that my people are with me."

The Capitals: Can Sheikh Hasina sail through stormy season of Dhaka politics?

The supporters of Bangladesh's opposition party Bangladesh nationalist party or BNP continue with their demand of Prime Minister Sheik Hasina's resignation and a caretaker government.

Bangladesh political violence: Dhaka remains on boil for the 5th day

Bangladesh: Protests, violence, vandalism continue on the streets of Dhaka

In Bangladesh violent protests have entered the third day as supporters of the opposition BNP stepped up their demand for Prime Minister Shiekh Hasina to resign and make way for a neutral caretaker government to conduct the elections as the blockade by the opposition continues.

Bangladesh: Opposition workers, supporters set vehicles ablaze amid violence

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Bangladeshi counterpart Sheikh Hasina on Wednesday jointly inaugurated three projects via virtual mode, including a key rail link between Tripura’s Nischintapur and Gangasagar in the neighbouring country.

The other two projects inaugurated by Modi and Hasina are the 65-km Khulna-Mongla Port Rail Line and Unit 2 of the Maitree Super Thermal Power Plant in Bangladesh’s Rampal.

The cross-border rail project near Tripura’s capital Agartala and Akhaura in Bangladesh is expected to boost cross-border trade, and significantly reduce the travel time between Agartala and Kolkata via Dhaka.

Modi said the inauguration of the Agartala-Akhaura Cross Border Rail Link was a “historic” moment. "This is the first rail link between the northeast and Bangladesh," he said. All the three projects are India-assisted development initiatives.

The trial run of the 12.24-km rail project (6.78 km dual gauge line in Bangladesh and 5.46 km in Tripura) was completed on Monday, after a train from Gangasagar railway station in Brahmanbaria district of Bangladesh arrived at Nischintapur railway station.

“It is a matter of joy that we have connected once again to celebrate the success of the India-Bangladesh cooperation. In the past nine years, the work we have done together has not happened in decades,” Modi said in an interaction with Hasina over video-conference.

Hasina said the three projects would further strengthen the infrastructure development collaboration between the two countries.

“The joint inauguration of these important projects shows that we have a strong bond of friendship and collaboration... I also thank PM Modi for the warm hospitality during my visit in September for the G20 Summit,” she said.

&nbsp;“I think it is an instance for the world. We have proved that good relations with the neighbour accelerate the country’s development. It is a demonstration of having rare friendly relations and mutual cooperation. Bangladesh and India will attain many successes in the days to come through mutual cooperation, which will strengthen the relationship between the two countries,” Hasina said.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kerala-police-book-union-minister-rajeev-chandrasekhar-for-promoting-religious-enmity-653562">India: Kerala police book Union Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar for ‘promoting religious enmity’</a>

She also said that mutual efforts have helped ensure peace and stability in the northeast region of India, and establish connectivity between many Indian states with its northeast part through Chattogram and Mongla Ports.

India had extended Rs 392.52 crore as grant assistance to Bangladesh for the Agartala-Akhaura Cross Border Rail Link, officials said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/8-indian-states-celebrate-their-formation-day-today-pm-modi-extends-greetings-653858">8 Indian states celebrate their formation day today. PM Modi extends greetings</a> 

&nbsp;Meanwhile, Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha said the rail project would enable the state to become the gateway to other northeastern states for trade, connectivity and tourism, and reduce the distance between Agartala and Kolkata via Dhaka from 1,600 km to 500 km.

As part of the Khulna-Mongla Port Rail Line, a 65-km broad gauge route was constructed between Bangladesh’s Mongla Port and the existing rail network in Khulna.

The Khulna–Mongla rail link line will help operate trains from Mongla to some of the western destinations of Bangladesh Railways and also to Dhaka via Khulna and Padma Bridge.

Bangladesh officials earlier said the line aims to operate freight trains to Gede, Radikapur and Singhabad of India and also some other destinations of Nepal and Bhutan.

The 1,320-MW Maitree Super Thermal Power Project was implemented by the Bangladesh-India Friendship Power Company Ltd, a 50:50 joint venture between India's NTPC and the Bangladesh Power Development Board. The plant is located at Rampal in Khulna division of Bangladesh.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Bangladeshi counterpart Sheikh Hasina on Wednesday jointly inaugurated three projects via virtual mode, including a key rail link between Tripura’s Nischintapur and Gangasagar in the neighbouring country.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Bangladeshi counterpart Sheikh Hasina on Wednesday jointly inaugurated three projects via virtual mode, including a key rail link between Tripura’s Nischintapur and Gangasagar in the neighbouring country. The other two projects inaugurated by Modi and Hasina are the 65-km Khulna-Mongla Port Rail Line and Unit 2 of the Maitree Super Thermal Power Plant in Bangladesh’s Rampal. The cross-border rail project near Tripura’s capital Agartala and Akhaura in Bangladesh is expected to boost cross-border trade, and significantly reduce the travel time between Agartala and Kolkata via Dhaka. Modi said the inauguration of the Agartala-Akhaura Cross Border Rail Link was a “historic” moment. "This is the first rail link between the northeast and Bangladesh," he said. All the three projects are India-assisted development initiatives. The trial run of the 12.24-km rail project (6.78 km dual gauge line in Bangladesh and 5.46 km in Tripura) was completed on Monday, after a train from Gangasagar railway station in Brahmanbaria district of Bangladesh arrived at Nischintapur railway station. “It is a matter of joy that we have connected once again to celebrate the success of the India-Bangladesh cooperation. In the past nine years, the work we have done together has not happened in decades,” Modi said in an interaction with Hasina over video-conference. Hasina said the three projects would further strengthen the infrastructure development collaboration between the two countries. “The joint inauguration of these important projects shows that we have a strong bond of friendship and collaboration... I also thank PM Modi for the warm hospitality during my visit in September for the G20 Summit,” she said. “I think it is an instance for the world. We have proved that good relations with the neighbour accelerate the country’s development. It is a demonstration of having rare friendly relations and mutual cooperation. Bangladesh and India will attain many successes in the days to come through mutual cooperation, which will strengthen the relationship between the two countries,” Hasina said. Also read | India: Kerala police book Union Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar for ‘promoting religious enmity’ She also said that mutual efforts have helped ensure peace and stability in the northeast region of India, and establish connectivity between many Indian states with its northeast part through Chattogram and Mongla Ports. India had extended Rs 392.52 crore as grant assistance to Bangladesh for the Agartala-Akhaura Cross Border Rail Link, officials said. Also read | 8 Indian states celebrate their formation day today. PM Modi extends greetings Meanwhile, Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha said the rail project would enable the state to become the gateway to other northeastern states for trade, connectivity and tourism, and reduce the distance between Agartala and Kolkata via Dhaka from 1,600 km to 500 km. As part of the Khulna-Mongla Port Rail Line, a 65-km broad gauge route was constructed between Bangladesh’s Mongla Port and the existing rail network in Khulna. The Khulna–Mongla rail link line will help operate trains from Mongla to some of the western destinations of Bangladesh Railways and also to Dhaka via Khulna and Padma Bridge. Bangladesh officials earlier said the line aims to operate freight trains to Gede, Radikapur and Singhabad of India and also some other destinations of Nepal and Bhutan. The 1,320-MW Maitree Super Thermal Power Project was implemented by the Bangladesh-India Friendship Power Company Ltd, a 50:50 joint venture between India's NTPC and the Bangladesh Power Development Board. The plant is located at Rampal in Khulna division of Bangladesh.

Indian PM Modi, Bangladesh's Sheikh Hasina jointly inaugurate key development projects

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