Bangladesh to Hold Parliamentary Elections Amid Opposition Boycott Threat

Violent protests ensue as opposition demands resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and appointment of a nonpartisan caretaker government.

Bangladesh's parliamentary elections are scheduled for January 7, 2024, as announced by the country's Chief Election Commissioner Kazi Habibul Awal.
The main opposition, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), has vowed to boycott the elections unless Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigns and a nonpartisan caretaker government is appointed.
Violent protests and demonstrations have been held across the country by the opposition, leading to several deaths and arrests.
Major Western countries, including the United States, have urged for a political settlement through dialogue and called for free and fair elections.
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, seeking a fourth consecutive term, has rejected the opposition's demands and pledged to hold free and fair elections.