What's happened
Exiled former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina faces trial for crimes against humanity after her ousting in 2024. The interim government, led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, plans elections in February 2026 but has banned her party, the Awami League, citing security concerns. The political landscape remains highly unstable.
What's behind the headline?
The current political crisis in Bangladesh is rooted in the 2024 uprising that ousted Sheikh Hasina, leading to her exile and the interim government’s rise. The ban on the Awami League and the exclusion of major parties threaten the legitimacy of upcoming elections, risking further instability. The trial of Hasina, seen by many as politically motivated, underscores the deep divisions within Bangladesh’s political landscape. The rising popularity of the BNP and Jamaat-e-Islami indicates a shift towards more polarized politics, which could prolong unrest. The international community’s condemnation of the ban and the trial’s fairness will influence Bangladesh’s diplomatic standing. The upcoming elections in February 2026 will be pivotal; if they are perceived as unfair or illegitimate, the country’s stability could deteriorate further, potentially leading to renewed violence or international intervention. The situation underscores the fragility of Bangladesh’s democracy and the risks posed by political exclusion and judicial politicization.
What the papers say
Al Jazeera reports on Sheikh Hasina’s exile and trial, highlighting her claims of political persecution and the interim government’s actions. The Independent features insights from Sajeeb Wazed Joy, emphasizing the importance of inclusive elections for stability. AP News quotes Joy’s concerns about political manipulation and the need for fair elections. These sources collectively portray a Bangladesh at a crossroads, with deep divisions and uncertain prospects for democratic restoration, illustrating the complex interplay between justice, legitimacy, and political power in the country.
How we got here
Sheikh Hasina was toppled in August 2024 after a student-led uprising that resulted in up to 1,400 deaths. The interim government, under Muhammad Yunus, has promised elections in February 2026 but has banned the Awami League, citing national security threats and war crimes investigations. The BNP and Jamaat-e-Islami are gaining influence amid the political vacuum, while Hasina is in exile in India awaiting her trial for alleged crimes committed during the uprising.
Go deeper
- What are the implications of the upcoming elections for Bangladesh's stability?
- How might the international community influence the trial and political process?
- What role will the BNP and Jamaat-e-Islami play in the future political landscape?
Common question
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What’s Happening with Bangladesh’s Political Crisis?
Bangladesh is currently experiencing a period of intense political unrest following the exile of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Her trial for alleged crimes against humanity and the banning of her party, the Awami League, have deepened the country's instability. Many are wondering what this means for Bangladesh’s future, upcoming elections, and the broader political landscape. Below, we answer some of the most pressing questions about this crisis.
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What’s Next for Bangladesh Amid Political Turmoil?
Bangladesh is currently facing a period of intense political unrest following the exile of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. With her facing trial for alleged crimes and the interim government planning elections, many are wondering what the future holds for the country. In this page, we explore the reasons behind the turmoil, the key players involved, and what to expect in the coming months.
More on these topics
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Sheikh Hasina, also known by her married name Sheikh Hasina Wazed, is a Bangladeshi politician serving as the 10th Prime Minister of Bangladesh, having held the office since January 2009.
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Muhammad Yunus is a Bangladeshi social entrepreneur, banker, economist, and civil society leader who was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for founding the Grameen Bank and pioneering the concepts of microcredit and microfinance.
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Khaleda Zia is a Bangladeshi politician who served as the Prime Minister of Bangladesh from 1991 to 1996, and again from 2001 to 2006.