interim government Bangladesh

The custodial death of former minister Ramesh Chandra Sen has intensified scrutiny of Bangladesh’s prison healthcare, political arrests, and alleged abuses against families under the interim government.

At a Washington policy forum, analysts warned that sidelining the Awami League reflects fear of electoral defeat and risks undermining Bangladesh’s democracy, stability, and international standing.

Sheikh Hasina is set to address international media from New Delhi on January 23, challenging Bangladesh’s interim government and warning against an exclusionary election.

Hundreds of militants and high-risk prisoners have been released on bail since August 2024, raising fears of extremist resurgence, institutional breakdown, and shrinking democratic space in Bangladesh.

Bangladesh heads toward its February 2026 election amid deepening doubts over the neutrality of the interim government and the credibility of the electoral process.