Bangladesh parties launch campaigns

Bangladesh’s major political parties launched formal election campaigns three weeks ahead of national voting, with rallies, marches and roadshows reported across the country. The youth‑led National Citizen Party held a march in Dhaka to the tomb of activist Sharif Osman Hadi, while Islamist Jamaat‑e‑Islami drew thousands to hear leader Shafiqur Rahman. BNP chief Tarique Rahman opened campaigning in the tea‑growing Sylhet region with multiple roadshows. Organizers reported tight security at events and no immediate outbreaks of violence.

The campaign season is unfolding amid deep political polarization and economic strain. The ruling party emphasizes development achievements, infrastructure projects and continuity to safeguard stability, highlighting investments in transport, energy and social programs. Opposition parties are mobilizing large gatherings focused on governance, democratic reform and economic hardship, accusing authorities of suppressing dissent and pledging to restore what they call free and fair governance.

Voter skepticism lingers because of past elections marred by allegations of irregularities, low turnout and opposition boycotts, prompting calls from civil society for restraint and adherence to democratic norms. Economic concerns — rising inflation, pressure on foreign‑currency reserves, food prices, employment and remittances — are expected to dominate messaging, with rural and urban constituencies drawing different campaign priorities.

Authorities have increased police and security deployments to prevent clashes seen in prior cycles, and election officials say preparations are progressing to ensure polling stations and materials are ready. Opposition figures, however, remain cautious about the sufficiency of transparency measures. International observers are expected to monitor the vote, adding scrutiny to the process.

As campaigning intensifies, large turnouts on all sides reflect both anticipation and anxiety among voters weighing competing narratives on the country’s future. The coming weeks of campaigning are set to shape a pivotal and closely watched national vote.