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Hasina Questions Credibility of 2026 Bangladesh Elections
New Delhi, December 22:
Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has criticised the upcoming national elections, saying that polls held without the Awami League would not be democratic. She described such an exercise as a “coronation” rather than a real election.
Bangladesh will hold national elections in February 2026, nearly a year after a student-led uprising in July 2024 removed Hasina’s government. Authorities have barred the Awami League from contesting the polls.
Millions May Be Disenfranchised, Says Hasina
Hasina said that excluding her party would deny millions of voters their democratic rights.
“When people cannot vote for their preferred party, they often do not vote at all,” she said.
She added that any government formed under such conditions would lack moral authority. According to her, Bangladesh needs reconciliation, not exclusion, at this critical time.
Violence and Lawlessness Under Interim Government
Hasina blamed the interim administration led by Muhammad Yunus for growing violence across the country. Her remarks followed unrest linked to the death of Inqilab Moncho leader Osman Hadi.
She said violence has become common while the administration fails to control the situation. Hasina also raised concerns over attacks on Hindu minorities.
Impact on Regional Relations
Hasina warned that ongoing instability could harm Bangladesh’s international standing. She said neighbouring countries, including India, are closely watching the situation with concern.
“When a country fails to maintain internal order, its global credibility suffers,” she said.
Key Political Players in the 2026 Polls
The February 2026 elections will be the first since Hasina’s removal in August 2024. Voters will also take part in a national referendum on the ‘July Charter’ on the same day.
The proposed charter aims to reduce executive powers and strengthen judicial independence.
The main contest is expected between Begum Khaleda Zia’s Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and Jamaat-e-Islami. The National Citizens Party (NCP), formed after the student movement, is also likely to participate.
Political tensions remain high as Bangladesh moves closer to the elections.
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