With its strategic location and economic potential, Bangladesh is a hotspot for geopolitical competition, impacting infrastructure, crisis management, and democratic processes. The country is developing quickly and undertaking ambitious projects requiring external support. Bangladeshi leaders are mindful of geopolitical manoeuvring when selecting large infrastructure projects, as illustrated by the selection of a Japanese-funded seaport project over a Chinese-funded one. Geopolitical competition also influences elections, as seen in the 2024 general election. This study examines these influences on local and national conflict tensions, focusing on infrastructure and democratic processes.