Sheikh Hasina Slams Bangladesh Polls, calls it farcical election

Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has sharply criticized the country’s ongoing election process, calling it a “farcical election” conducted under what she described as a “murderous-fascist” interim regime led by Muhammad Yunus.

In a statement circulated through supporters, Hasina alleged that the electoral environment lacks legitimacy, accusing the current authorities of suppressing opposition voices and manipulating democratic institutions. She claimed the vote is being staged to manufacture consent rather than reflect public will, and warned that such a process risks deepening political instability in Bangladesh.

There are plenty of videos surfacing on illigal ballot paper vote rigging in Bangladesh's February 12, 2026, parliamentary election, featuring a 13-second video of men rapidly stuffing multiple ballots into boxes at a polling station, amid reports of pre-stamped votes and low turnout.

Representatives aligned with Yunus rejected the accusations, calling them politically motivated and insisting that the interim administration is committed to conducting a transparent and credible election.

The exchange underscores Bangladesh’s sharply polarized political climate following Hasina’s ouster and transition to an interim governing arrangement. Analysts say the legitimacy of the election will likely shape the country’s diplomatic posture and internal stability in the months ahead.

Regional observers are closely watching developments, given Bangladesh’s strategic importance in South Asia and its economic ties with neighboring countries. Further statements from election authorities are expected as voting phases continue.