Why Are Bangladesh's Ex-PM Hasina and Her Family Barred from Voting in the February Elections?
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Synopsis
In a shocking turn of events, former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and her family members face a voting ban in the upcoming February elections due to blocked NID Cards. Explore the implications of this unprecedented political maneuvering in Bangladesh's tumultuous political landscape.
Key Takeaways
- Sheikh Hasina's NID is blocked, preventing her from voting.
- The Election Commission confirms the NID regulation applies to all citizens.
- Political analysts view these actions as politically motivated.
- The Awami League faces significant challenges ahead of the elections.
- Concerns about democracy in Bangladesh are escalating.
Dhaka, Sep 18 (NationPress) The former Prime Minister of Bangladesh, Sheikh Hasina, along with several members of her family, will not be permitted to participate in next year's elections due to their National Identity (NID) Cards being blocked, as reported by local media.
The Senior Secretary of the Election Commission (EC), Akhtar Ahmed, stated to reporters on Wednesday that "any individual whose NID card is locked cannot vote from abroad. While those who have fled overseas due to legal cases or other circumstances do not face obstacles in voting, their NID must remain unlocked."
"To cast a vote from abroad, one must register online using their NID number. A passport will not suffice. Therefore, if someone's NID is locked, they cannot register. Only those who register with their NIDs will have this opportunity," The Business Standard quoted the EC official as saying.
When questioned about Hasina's ability to vote, he confirmed, "She cannot vote because her NID is blocked."
In April, the National Identity Registration Wing under the EC "locked" Hasina's NID and those of nine family members following a verbal directive from its Director General, ASM Humayn Kabir.
The family members affected include Sheikh Rehana Siddique, Sajeeb Wazed Joy, Saima Wazed, Shahnaz Siddique, Bushra Siddique, Tulip Rizwana Siddique, Azmira Siddique, Radwan Mujib Siddique, and Tarique Ahmed Siddique.
Previously in July, the EC removed the election symbol of Hasina's Awami League from its website in an effort to diminish the party's decades-long political presence in Bangladesh, according to local media.
On May 12, the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus issued a gazette notification prohibiting all activities of the Awami League and its affiliated organizations.
This ban was enforced under the Anti-Terrorism Act until the trial of the party and its leaders in Bangladesh's International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) is concluded.
Analysts view these recent developments as a continuation of the political vendetta pursued by the interim government against Hasina and her family, aiming to prevent the Awami League from participating in the national elections.
The abrupt departure of Hasina last August was perceived globally as a significant setback for democracy in the nation. The interim government has faced substantial criticism for providing sanctuary to radical and extremist Islamic groups.
Point of View
I maintain an unwavering commitment to the truth, presenting a balanced view of the complex political scenario in Bangladesh. The recent developments surrounding former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and her family highlight ongoing tensions that challenge the democratic fabric of our nation.
NationPress
22/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are Sheikh Hasina and her family members barred from voting?
Sheikh Hasina and her family members are barred from voting because their National Identity (NID) Cards have been blocked, preventing them from registering to vote.
What is the role of the Election Commission in this situation?
The Election Commission is responsible for overseeing the electoral process and has confirmed that any individual with a locked NID cannot vote, even from abroad.
What are the implications of this voting ban?
The ban on voting for Hasina and her family could signify a deeper political strategy aimed at diminishing the influence of the Awami League in upcoming elections.
How has the interim government reacted to the Awami League?
The interim government has taken measures, including removing the Awami League's election symbol and banning its activities, under the Anti-Terrorism Act.
What does this mean for democracy in Bangladesh?
These developments are perceived as a significant threat to democracy in Bangladesh, raising concerns about political freedom and the future electoral landscape.
