15,000 Taka, 'Promise Of Salvation': Bangladesh's Jamaat-e-Islami Faces Bribery Allegations As Elections Close

As Bangladesh approaches its upcoming elections, the political landscape is marred by serious allegations against the Jamaat-e-Islami party. Reports from the country's mainstream media indicate instances of violence, including scattered clashes, and claims of pre-poll vote manipulation. More troubling are accusations that the party has resorted to bribery, with amounts reportedly reaching 15,000 Taka offered to voters in exchange for their support—a move described by critics as a 'promise of salvation.' The allegations have raised significant concerns about the integrity of the electoral process, with observers noting the distribution of photocopied ballots in certain constituencies. This situation unfolds amid a tense political atmosphere, where accusations of election fraud and voter intimidation are increasingly common. The Jamaat-e-Islami, a key player in Bangladesh's politics, has faced scrutiny before, but these latest developments could have far-reaching implications for the party's future and the overall democratic process in Bangladesh.