The 2018 Bangladesh election comes to a close, amidst controversy and violence, as Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is set to secure her fourth consecutive term in office. The election was marked by widespread reports of voter inducements and a low turnout, raising concerns about the legitimacy of the poll.
Preliminary results indicate that Hasina’s Awami League has won 216 seats out of 299, with independent candidates taking 52 and the Jatiya Party securing 11 seats. Turnout was reported to be at 27.15 percent, a significant decrease from the 80 percent turnout in the previous election. Voting was cancelled at three centers due to irregularities, and independent election observers have criticized the low turnout and legitimacy of the election.
Opposition party, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), boycotted the election and called for nationwide strikes, leading to a lack of enthusiasm among the people. BNP chief Tarique Rahman spoke about his fears of voter fraud and manipulation by the election commission.
The run-up to the election was marred by violence, with at least four people killed in incidents of arson and political violence. The government accused the opposition of instigating protests and unrest in the country.
Rights groups have warned of one-party rule by the Awami League after the boycott by the BNP and some smaller allies. The widespread discontent and lack of a credible opposition candidate have raised concerns about the state of democracy in Bangladesh.
Prime Minister Hasina, who urged citizens to cast their ballots and express faith in the democratic process, faces criticism for authoritarianism and human rights violations. She has been credited with economic development but has also faced accusations of suppressing dissent and free speech.
With the election results expected to be officially declared on Monday, the prospect of a fourth term for Prime Minister Hasina has been met with skepticism from observers, raising concerns about the state of democracy in Bangladesh.