Senior reporter
In an effort to reform the electoral system, the Election System Reform Commission has proposed nearly 150 recommendations across 18 areas, including significant relief for independent candidates. The commission recommended replacing the requirement for 1% of constituency voters' signatures with the support of 500 voters for independent candidates.
Amidst the ongoing instability, the country has started its journey in 2025 with the possibility of new political polarisation and the desire for elections and reforms. Except for Jamaat-e-Islami, all political parties are increasing pressure on the interim government for early elections with a specific roadmap. One of the country’s top political parties, BNP and its like-minded parties and alliances are demanding early elections after completing the necessary reforms. Civil society is also increasing pressure on the issue of reforms.
With three days remaining in the year, data from Bangladesh Bank indicates that in 2024 (January 1 to December 28), Bangladesh has received the highest remittance in 20 years through legal channels. This achievement stems from the robust remittance flow that began early in the year and continued consistently.
Although it is a decrease compared to the previous year, 758 farmers and workers were killed in 639 accidents while at work across the country in 2024. Workers who died in road accidents on their way to and from work are also included in this count.
The 12th National Election made 2023 a highly discussed and significant year for the country's political parties, more so than in recent years. However, 2024 has emerged as one of the most critical years since independence due to the ousting of the former Prime Minister after nearly 16 years in power and her flight to India, leading to a new political realignment. Whether this shift will result in a new political settlement driven by demands for reform or a rebranding of old politics remains uncertain. Nevertheless, the direction of the fractured political landscape will largely depend on the interim government.
The authorities concerned with the ministries and departments are searching for alternative offices inside or outside the Secretariat to keep their regular activities carried out.