As Bangladesh readies for its 13th national election in February 2026, Dhaka faces a political landscape fraught with new and significant challenges. Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus has pledged that this election will mark the country’s first ‘free and fair’ democratic transition in 15 years. The political climate in Dhaka has been marred by communal violence, mob rule, ethnic conflicts, the rise of Islamist extremism, and attempts at historical revisionism, presenting a unique set of obstacles for the upcoming election.
The recent period has seen the July Uprising, the establishment of an interim government, and the banning of the Awami League and its student wing, Chhatra League. Criticisms of ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina have centered on her alleged compromise of Bangladesh’s democracy during her 15-year tenure. Concerns have been raised both domestically and internationally, with a focus on the country’s democratic processes, autocratic tendencies, centralization of power, and human rights issues.
Bangladesh’s democracy has a complex history, with periods of military rule interspersed with brief democratic phases. The emergence of Islamist elements under military rule post-1975 has posed a significant challenge to the country’s democratic values. Parties like Jamaat-e-Islami, historically opposed to Bangladesh’s secular principles, have played a notable role in the nation’s political landscape. The country’s struggle for democracy has been marked by periods of governance crises, Islamist radicalism, and challenges to democratic norms.
Under Sheikh Hasina’s leadership, Bangladesh has made strides in combating Islamist extremism and promoting democratic values. Her government’s ‘zero-tolerance’ policy towards Islamist militant groups has received international acclaim. Additionally, efforts to address historical injustices from the 1971 Liberation War have been a key focus, with initiatives to bring war criminals to justice and recognize the contributions of liberation fighters. Hasina’s tenure has also seen a strong emphasis on protecting minority rights and promoting Bangladesh’s cultural diversity.
