Bangladesh prepares for pivotal election, its first since 2024 uprising

Bangladesh is on the verge of a pivotal national election, its first since the mass protests of July 2024. Campaigning ended Tuesday for the Thursday vote, which will see over 120 million eligible citizens choose representatives for 300 parliamentary seats, concurrently with a referendum on reforms.

Voter enthusiasm and logistical rush

Public holidays have been declared to facilitate voting, leading to a massive exodus of people, including factory workers, from cities like Dhaka to their home constituencies. The surge has caused traffic congestion on major highways. Voters like Tabish Mahdi, who was unable to vote in the previous election under Sheikh Hasina's administration, expressed enthusiasm, citing a widespread desire for change. Roughly one-quarter of the electorate are first-time voters, many of whom participated in the 2024 uprising.

Broad international observation

The election is under significant international scrutiny, with around 330 observers from numerous countries and organizations monitoring the process. Key observer groups include delegations from Türkiye, the European Union, the Commonwealth, and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). A seven-member Turkish observation team met with interim head Muhammad Yunus on Tuesday, underscoring the close diplomatic ties between Ankara and Dhaka.

Political landscape and stakes

Nearly 2,000 candidates from more than 50 political parties, plus independents, are competing. The election represents a critical test for the nation's political direction following the 2024 unrest, which demanded systemic change. The outcome will determine whether the long-standing political culture is reshaped by the energy of the young, first-time voters who dominated the recent protest movements.