"Bangladesh's Election Dilemma: Youth Demand Stability Amidst Boycotts and International Scrutiny"

Bangladesh is preparing for its 12th general election amidst a history of controversial polls, boycotts, and violence. Since its independence in 1971, only four elections have been deemed free and fair. The opposition Bangladesh National Party (BNP) is boycotting the upcoming election, citing the government's refusal to establish a neutral caretaker government to oversee the polls. The European Union has declined to send a full observer team due to concerns over the election's conduct, and the military has been deployed to maintain order. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's Awami League is expected to win, which would mark her fifth term in office, amid widespread allegations of vote tampering and political manipulation.