Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has acknowledged the challenges that lie ahead for the upcoming 12th national parliamentary elections in Bangladesh. Speaking during an exchange of views with leaders and activists of the ruling Awami League and its associated bodies at her official residence Ganabhaban, she expressed concerns about various conspiracies being orchestrated before the polls.
BNP’s boycott strategy: A risky move amidst recent contradictions?
The next general election, expected to be held in December this year or January next year, has become a contentious issue with the country’s main opposition party, the BNP, vowing to boycott the polls unless the government steps down in favour of a non-partisan caretaker administration. The demand has been rejected by the government, which deems it unconstitutional. However, despite the BNP’s strong stance on boycotting the upcoming general election, recent events have raised questions about the party’s unity and commitment to its own decisions. In the recent city polls, some BNP leaders chose to participate, directly contradicting the party’s decision to boycott elections. This raises concerns about the BNP’s ability to maintain a consistent and united front, thereby undermining the credibility of their boycott stance. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has expressed her views on the BNP’s boycott strategy, highlighting the potential risks it poses.
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Critics argue that boycotting the election may not be the right course of action for the BNP. By abstaining from participating in the democratic process, they risk isolating themselves from the political landscape and missing an opportunity to present their policies and engage with the public. The ruling Awami League, on the other hand, has consistently emphasized the importance of active participation in the democratic process and the power of the ballot box in shaping the nation’s future.
Under the leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, the Awami League has demonstrated its commitment to democratic governance and development. The government’s rejection of the demand for a non-partisan caretaker administration is based on constitutional grounds, ensuring a smooth and lawful transition of power.
PM criticizes opposition’s false narratives
Addressing the gathering, Prime Minister highlighted the presence of individuals who speak against Bangladesh and spread lies internationally. She stated that some people raise false narratives about the country in order to seek international donations. Furthermore, she accused those who didn’t believe in Bangladesh’s independence and committed heinous crimes during the Liberation War, along with their subsequent generations, of relentlessly carrying out propaganda against the nation. In her address, she stated, “Whenever the lives of the Bangladeshi people show improvement, there are certain malicious people within the country who spread slander and falsehood about Bangladesh on various platforms.” The Prime Minister did not shy away from condemning those who opposed the independence of Bangladesh and committed grave crimes during the Liberation War. She stated, “Those who opposed our independence and perpetrated genocide, looting, rape, and torture against women are constantly engaged in spreading false propaganda against the country.”

Calls for strengthening the ruling party
Pointing out the opposition party’s history of vote-rigging, Sheikh Hasina criticised their newfound emphasis on democracy. She highlighted that the opposition party, formed under a military dictatorship, has a track record of stealing votes. She questioned what the people of Bangladesh can learn about democracy from those who engage in such practices. In light of these challenges, she called upon her party members to work towards strengthening the ruling Awami League further.
Bangladesh’s development achievements and current challenges
Prime Minister Hasina emphasised the significant progress Bangladesh has achieved under her government’s leadership over the past 14 years. She highlighted the country’s transformation into a developing nation and the decline in poverty rates in rural areas. However, she acknowledged the difficulties the country currently faces due to global factors such as soaring commodity prices, transport costs, and the prices of gas, fuel, and coal following the Ukraine-Russia war. The increased interest rates on foreign loans have also put pressure on the country’s foreign currency reserves.
Addressing agricultural production and commodity price-hike
To mitigate the challenges posed by rising food prices, the premier urged to boost agricultural production by ensuring that no land remains uncultivated in the country. She reassured the public that despite the commodity price-hike, goods are available in the market, and there is no scarcity. The premier also mentioned the recent success in rice and crop production, noting that the country has witnessed a good yield this year.
Record national budget and increased social safety net programs
The Prime Minister highlighted the government’s achievement of presenting a record national budget of Tk 761,785 crore, surpassing previous budgets. She emphasised that despite the tough economic situation, her government has been able to deliver such a budget. The budget has also resulted in increased benefits and allowances for beneficiaries of social safety net programs. Furthermore, the government has introduced a card system allowing low-income individuals to purchase essential commodities at subsidised prices.
PM calls on supporters to prepare for a challenging election
In light of the upcoming general election, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina called on her party leaders and activists to be cautious and prepared against the multifaceted conspiracies that lie ahead. She emphasised the importance of acquainting the masses with the development activities of the Awami League government and urged them to engage in door-to-door campaigns. The premier reassured the leaders that nominations for the election will be based on a survey report, indicating that existing MPs may not automatically receive party nominations. She said, “The next election will be tough, and nominations will be given based on a survey report. So there is no need to think that existing MPs will get party nominations.” Her words highlight the significance of evaluating potential candidates based on their performance and public sentiment. Moreover, she urged her party leaders and activists to engage in door-to-door campaigns, stating, “Focus on your work and start door-to-door campaigns.”
To wrap up, as Bangladesh braces for the challenges of the forthcoming general elections, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s remarks highlight the need for political vigilance and a strong electoral campaign to counter opposition forces. With the ruling Awami League focusing on their achievements and addressing the country’s current challenges, the political landscape remains dynamic as the nation prepares for the next chapter in its democratic journey.
Photo Credit: Yeasin Kabir Joy