Bangladesh Elections: From Caretaker to Rebellion, A Tumultuous Journey

• Bangladesh's electoral history, post-1971 independence, is marked by instability and only 4 out of 12 elections deemed free and fair internationally.
• The 2001 election, under a caretaker government, saw BNP win but was marred by violence against minority Hindus, leading to 1 million fleeing.
• Sheikh Hasina abolished the caretaker system in 2011, leading to disputed elections in 2014 and 2018, with allegations of rigging and boycotts.
• The 2024 election, boycotted by BNP, led to a student rebellion, Hasina's resignation, and the establishment of an interim government.
• Bangladesh is now under an interim government led by Muhammad Yunus, with new elections scheduled for February 2026 amidst concerns over Jamaat-e-Islami's influence and fairness.