Politics: Bangladesh Holds First Election After Hasina Government’s Ouster

Bangladesh is witnessing its first general election since the ouster of Sheikh Hasina’s government, marking a crucial political turning point for the country. Voting is underway amid tight security arrangements across the nation, with authorities deploying heavy police presence to ensure peaceful polling. Around 1,755 candidates from nearly 60 political parties are contesting the elections. The main contest is between the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and Jamaat-e-Islami, along with their respective alliance partners. The election is being closely watched both domestically and internationally, as it will determine the country’s next Prime Minister and shape its political direction after months of upheaval. Security agencies remain on high alert to prevent any unrest, given Bangladesh’s history of political violence during elections. Voters are turning out to exercise their democratic rights in what is being described as a landmark post-coup election.