With the BNP boycotting and key international players questioning its legitimacy, Bangladesh’s 12th national election threatens to undermine the spirit of the 1971 Liberation War. The Election Commission now faces the unprecedented task of overseeing an election that could leave democratic ideals and citizens' rights on shaky ground.

The chief election commissioner, Kazi Habibul Awal, faces unprecedented challenges as he leads the Election Commission toward the 12th national election amid heightened opposition and international scrutiny. In this analysis, Ambassador Serajul Islam unpacks the complexities of Awal’s approach and its implications for Bangladesh’s future. As the people await the right to vote, he reflects on the parallels between Bangladesh’s struggle today and the historic fight for independence. He also highlights the intricate involvement of foreign powers and the economic ramifications of neglecting democratic reforms. The article ends on a poignant note—questioning whether the regime’s direction leaves room for a tomorrow.

THE US ambassador Peter Haas is under the spotlight of Bangladesh’s politics because the Biden administration placed him there. He did not waste any time on arriving in Dhaka in March 2022 to let it be known to all and sundry what his role would be.

The transition in U.S. foreign policy under President Biden has placed significant pressure on Bangladesh’s Awami League (AL) regime, underscoring rights and democracy issues with targeted sanctions and visa restrictions. This shift reveals fractures in the AL’s previously firm alliances, especially given the recent media criticism from India, a traditional ally. The AL regime now faces unprecedented scrutiny, with U.S. demands for democratic reforms impacting both domestic and international credibility.

This article discusses the open letter signed by President Obama, 105 Nobel laureates, and other world leaders in support of Dr. Muhammad Yunus, urging Bangladesh’s prime minister to halt judicial proceedings. Ambassador Serajul Islam highlights the impact of international support for Yunus and the growing criticism of Bangladesh's human rights stance.