Dhaka, Jan. 30 -- based International Crisis Group (ICG) on Thursday said the political challenges in Bangladesh are likely to increase this year as political parties and other key players negotiate over reforms and jockey for electoral advantage, stressing that 'interim government's honeymoon' period is truly over.

"Free, fair and peaceful polls will be paramount for restoring Bangladeshi people's faith in electoral politics," said Crisis Group's Senior Consultant on Myanmar and Bangladesh Thomas Kean commenting on the "EU Watchlist" published by the group.

He said the 'honeymoon period' for Bangladesh's interim government is now well and truly over.

With elections approaching, Bangladesh's interim government is under pressure to deli...