Tue Jan 20 10:15:48 UTC 2026: # Bangladesh Election Threatened by Dual Citizenship Dispute

The Story

Protests have erupted in Bangladesh over the eligibility of dual citizens to contest in the upcoming February 12 national elections. The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and the National Citizen Party (NCP) are accusing the Bangladesh Election Commission (BEC) of bias, albeit from opposing viewpoints. The core issue revolves around whether candidates must fully renounce foreign citizenship before the election or if simply applying to do so is sufficient. This dispute is intensifying political divisions and jeopardizing the credibility and preparations for the elections.

Key Points

  • Student activists from the BNP protested outside the BEC headquarters, demanding that candidates with dual citizenship be allowed to contest.
  • Leaders of the NCP, which originated from the August 2024 protests that ousted then-Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, also accused the BEC of bias, alleging favoritism towards the BNP.
  • The BEC reviewed objections related to dual citizenship of 25 candidates, upholding the candidacy of 23 and cancelling 2.
  • Approved candidates include 10 from the BNP, 4 from Jamaat-e-Islami, 1 from the NCP, and 1 from Khelafat Majlis.
  • NCP is considering withdrawing from the election and may challenge the decisions in court.
  • Article 66(2) of the Bangladeshi Constitution disqualifies persons who acquire foreign citizenship.
  • The Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin has rejected accusations of bias, emphasizing a desire to ensure participation.
  • In January 2024, Shammi Ahmed of Awami League had her candidacy cancelled by the BEC over dual citizenship allegations.

Key Takeaways

  • The interpretation of Article 66(2) of the Constitution is at the heart of the dispute.
  • Allegations of bias against the BEC threaten the integrity and credibility of the electoral process.
  • The issue of dual citizenship is politically sensitive and has the potential to significantly impact election outcomes.
  • The involvement of Jamaat-e-Islami and the NCP further complicates the political landscape.
  • The election’s legitimacy is at stake if the BEC fails to maintain neutrality and adhere to legal procedures.

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