According to IRI, Bangladesh’s Pre-Election Environment Remains Unstable
According to a report published by the International Republican Institute (IRI), the political situation in Bangladesh remains fragile ahead of the 2026 national elections. From October 20–24, the organization conducted a mission to assess Bangladesh’s electoral environment and democratic processes.
New Reality of Religion-Based Politics in Bangladesh After the Fall of Sheikh Hasina
Following the end of Sheikh Hasina’s long tenure, the Qawmi madrasa-based Islamist organization Hefazat-e-Islam is emerging as a significant political force in Bangladesh. Taking advantage of pressure on the caretaker government and political instability, the group has become active on religious and political issues.
Awami League Warns UNDP Over Alleged Vote Manipulation Attempts
Awami League has accused the UNDP’s Ballot Project of legitimizing Bangladesh’s interim government, claiming the initiative undermines democracy and violates UN neutrality. The 18-page letter lists mass arrests and party ban allegations.
Most of BNP’s candidates are godfathers: Nasiruddin Patwary
Nasiruddin Patwary, Chief Coordinator of the National Citizen Party (NCP), said, “BNP’s list of candidates is disappointing. Most of them are godfathers. We had hoped that after the mass uprising, they would nominate some good candidates. But it appears that, strategically, the young leaders from Chhatra Dal and Jubo Dal have been excluded. They are welcome to join our party.”
Rights Groups Warn Bangladesh Against Party Bans, Urge Return to Multi-Party Democracy
Bangladesh’s interim government, led by Nobel laureate Dr. Muhammad Yunus, has sought to play down former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s call to boycott the upcoming February 2026 national elections. However, a recent report suggests that the Awami League’s support base remains resilient despite the political turmoil.
Bangladesh Faces Democratic Test After Ban on Sheikh Hasina’s Party
Former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s call to boycott the upcoming national elections has further escalated political tensions after her Awami League party was barred from contesting the polls scheduled for February 2026.
Yunus Meets Defence Chiefs to Finalize Security Strategy for Upcoming Polls
Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus held a coordination meeting on Saturday evening with the heads of Bangladesh’s Army, Navy, and Air Force to discuss nationwide security measures for the upcoming national elections.
Fakhrul Accuses Govt, Commission of Creating Crisis
BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has blamed the interim government and the consensus commission for Bangladesh’s current political crisis, saying disagreements over reform issues led to the impasse. Speaking at a JSD anniversary event, he confirmed BNP will join the election despite differences on the July Charter’s implementation.
Sheikh Hasina Slams Her War Crimes Trial, Says Bangladesh Election ‘Cannot Be Credible’ Without Awami League
Ex-Prime Minister of Bangladesh, Sheikh Hasina, says that upcoming elections risk deepening the country’s political divide. In written responses to AFP—her first interview since being toppled—she condemned her trial for crimes against humanity as a “jurisprudential joke,” insisting a guilty verdict was “preordained.”
Sheikh Hasina in rare interview: I’m not to blame for the bloodshed — my trial is a sham
Former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has denied allegations that she ordered security forces to open fire during last year’s deadly crackdown on street protests — a move that ultimately led to her downfall. She made the remarks in a rare and wide-ranging interview.