Bangladesh arrests 7,000 opposition activists

DHAKA, Jan. 22 (NsNewsWire) — Bangladesh has arrested more than 7,000 opposition activists since the start of nationwide protests two weeks ago, ministers have said.

The authorities are struggling to deal with unrest in which activists have bombed vehicles and blockaded roads, and 29 people have died, reports Xinhua.

Opposition leader Khaleda Zia called for protests on the anniversary of last year’s election.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina denounced the opposition as militants on Tuesday.

She said activists were not engaging in politics, but rather terrorism.

Both leaders have frequently called for general strikes and blockades while in opposition.

They have alternated in power for most of the past two decades, but analysts say Ms Hasina now has the upper hand.