The run-up to the elections has seen increased scrutiny of the Hasina administration, accused of adopting authoritarian measures since her return to power in 2008. Notably, in 2011, the requirement for a temporary independent technocratic cabinet to oversee elections was removed, contributing to concerns about the democratic nature of the electoral process.
The main opposition party, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party, has opted to boycott the elections, echoing a similar move in 2014, citing perceived undemocratic practices.
The Jatiya Sangsad, the National Parliament of Bangladesh, comprises 350 members, with 300 elected through first-past-the-post voting in single-member constituencies. An additional 50 seats are reserved for women, elected proportionally by the directly elected members. Each parliamentary term spans five years.
As of January 4, 2024, the Election Commission has reported a total of 119,689,289 registered voters for the upcoming election. Of this, 60,769,741 are male voters, 58,918,699 are female voters, and 849 are transgender voters.
A diverse political landscape is reflected in the participation of 28 political parties and a total of 1,970 candidates vying for positions, including 436 independent candidates. The Election Commission has established 42,148 final polling stations and 261,564 final polling booths to facilitate the electoral process.
Observers will closely monitor the developments surrounding the elections, considering the pre-election crackdown and the decision by the main opposition party to boycott, raising concerns about the fairness and inclusivity of the electoral process in Bangladesh. (ILKHA)