Election Violence in Bangladesh Leaves 26 Injured Ahead of February 12 Polls

In Bangladesh, violence continued during electioneering for February 12 general elections. At least 26 people injured in clashes in Kushtia, Bhola, Teknaf and Rajshahi between Thursday and Friday. Several election offices and campaign camps of BNP, Jamaat-e-Islami and an independent candidate were vandalised in Jhenaidah and Gazipur. In Teknaf, gunfire during a BNP campaign reportedly left five people injured, including children. Meanwhile, the Shop Owners’ Association announced that all shops, commercial establishments and shopping malls across the country will remain closed on February 11 and 12, citing security concerns ahead of the national polls.