DHAKA: Bangladesh heads to the polls Thursday, marking a significant transition in the political landscape following the 2024 ouster of long-time premier Sheikh Hasina, incited by a Gen Z-driven uprising. This election is critical for the nation of 175 million, as unrest and anti-Hasina protests have severely disrupted key sectors, including the garment industry, which is the world's second largest.

The contest is primarily between the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and the Islamist Jamaat-e-Islami, with the BNP currently having the edge according to opinion polls. Sheikh Hasina's Awami League is banned from participating, leaving her in self-imposed exile in India, while China's influence in Bangladesh appears to be rising amid deteriorating ties with New Delhi.

Unlike past elections, which were marred by violence and boycotts, this vote features over 2,000 candidates competing for 300 seats in the Jatiya Sangsad, or House of the Nation, making it a record turnout of political contenders. Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, currently heading an interim government installed after Hasina's departure, emphasized the importance of the election, stating that it represents a constitutional expression of public anger and injustice.

In addition to the elections, there is a referendum on constitutional reforms aimed at enhancing democratic governance in Bangladesh. This includes establishing a neutral interim government for election periods, increasing women's representation, and implementing a two-term limit for prime ministers.

Voter sentiment is mixed; while some express cynicism due to the absence of Hasina's party, others are eager to participate. With corruption and inflation as primary voter concerns, the stakes are undeniably high. "During Hasina’s time, we couldn’t cast our votes," exclaimed voter Shakil Ahmed. “This time, I won’t miss it.”

On election day, correspondingly, more than 100,000 military personnel will assist 200,000 police in maintaining order, as approximately 128 million citizens head to the polls. Polls open at 7:30 a.m. (0230 GMT) and close at 4:30 p.m., with results expected to emerge by Friday morning.