Bangladesh Braces for Historic February 12 Polls: First Vote Since Hasina Ouster, Tight Security Amid Minority Fears | Image:
Republic
Dhaka: All eyes are on Bangladesh’s parliamentary elections scheduled for February 12, as the Election Commission and security forces complete final arrangements to facilitate a peaceful voting process. The results are expected to be confirmed on Friday, February 13.
The polls come 18 months after a massive student-led uprising in 2024 forced the resignation of long-time Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and ended the Awami League’s rule, generating widespread hope for a shift toward greater accountability and reformed democratic governance in the neighbouring South Asian nation.
After an intense 20-day official campaign period that concluded yesterday, the focus now turns to this pivotal single day of voting for over 12.77 crore eligible voters, who will choose representatives for 299 of the 300 parliamentary seats, as one seat’s election has been postponed due to a candidate’s death.
Voters will also participate in a concurrent national referendum on the July National Charter, a key document proposing major constitutional and institutional changes that could shape future governance.
In a televised address to the nation last evening, Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus called on citizens to turn election day into the “birthday of a new Bangladesh”, emphasising that the people themselves would shape the nation’s promising future through their votes, The Daily Star reported.
A vast network of 42,779 polling stations has been established nationwide, with voting scheduled from 7:30 am to 4:30 pm without interruption. Among the electorate, 6.48 crore are men and 6.28 crore are women. A total of 1,755 candidates representing 50 registered political parties are in the fray, alongside 273 independents, including 20 women. Notably, 63 women candidates are contesting under party banners.
Ballot papers are being distributed to polling centres today with stringent security measures in place. Authorities have confirmed that all logistical preparations are complete, involving thousands of election officials and security personnel.
The Election Commission has voiced overall contentment with the prevailing law and order environment. “We are satisfied with the law and order situation as it stands. It would have been better if the isolated incidents that occurred had not happened. However, we are in a better position now than at any time in the past,” Election Commissioner Brig Gen (retd) Abul Fazal Md Sanaullah stated during a press briefing yesterday, as reported by The Daily Star.
He warned that “evil forces” continue to pose risks and expressed confidence that law enforcement would deliver their utmost to safegu
Read More