Bangladeshis will cast ballots Thursday in a crucial national election, the first since a mass uprising ended former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's 15-year rule. Public expectation is high that the vote could reset democratic norms after years of disputed elections. The interim administration of Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus is overseeing the transition, and has pledged a fair vote. There are over 127 million eligible voters in the nation of some 170 million. For the first time, citizens abroad can vote by mail. The election also includes a referendum on political reforms. The BNP, led by Tarique Rahman, is the front-runner. Minority communities, especially Hindus, express concerns over rising hard-line influence.
