Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his congratulations to Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on securing an unprecedented fourth consecutive term in the parliamentary elections. In a social media post on X, PM Modi praised Hasina’s victory and commended the people of Bangladesh for the successful conduct of the elections while expressing India’s commitment to fortifying their enduring partnership.
Hasina’s Awami League clinched nearly 75% of the seats in Sunday’s general election, although it witnessed a low turnout and was boycotted by the primary opposition, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP). The BNP, led by former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia, abstained from the election following disputes with Hasina, urging her resignation and the appointment of a neutral observer—a demand that remained unmet.
Responding to the BNP’s absence, Prime Minister Hasina emphasized that the decision of any political party does not undermine the essence of democracy. She conveyed this message to reporters at her official residence in Dhaka, underlining the rights of political parties to make independent choices in the electoral process.
Sheikh Hasina, the 76-year-old Bangladeshi leader, holds a significant political legacy as the daughter of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the nation’s founding father. Rahman was tragically assassinated in a 1975 army coup, resulting in the loss of most of his family members. Hasina, however, was out of the country on the fateful day and thus survived.
This electoral triumph marks Hasina’s fifth term, with her initial appointment as prime minister dating back to 1996. Her 15-year tenure has been lauded for economic revitalization, notably within the garments industry, and global recognition for sheltering Rohingya Muslims fleeing persecution in Myanmar.
The ruling Awami League secured 222 seats out of 298, according to unofficial Election Commission results, with Hasina herself earning an overwhelming victory in her constituency of Gopalganj. Her nearest contender trailed far behind, underscoring the resounding nature of her win.
Hasina’s historic fourth consecutive term echoes her enduring political strength and accomplishments, positioning her to continue guiding Bangladesh through pivotal economic and humanitarian endeavors in the region.
Sources By Agencies