With jailed opposition and dummy candidates, surreal theatre to pass for poll

On January 7, an "election" of sorts will take place in Bangladesh. Perhaps it is best not described as an "election" but as a theatrical play or even charade that seeks to portray the people of Bangladesh as being able to make a real choice and one that ends in them choosing the Awami League as the legitimate party of government. With no opposition in attendance, it remains unclear whether those participating in this theatre of the absurd are actually beguiled by the charade. Its preposterousness is certainly in full view of the audience - and it has already received…