By Alastair Lawson BBC correspondent in Dhaka

Around 10,000 members of Bangladesh's main opposition Awami League party have gathered in Dhaka to try to decide how to revive the party's flagging fortunes.

Sheikh Hasina... faces a tough task if she is to turn her enfeebled party into a political force again

The party was soundly defeated in general elections last year and organisers hope it can be rejuvenated by the launch of a new manifesto and the appointment of several new party leaders.

The Awami League, though, is in crisis.

It has less than a third of the seats in parliament.

Some of its most senior members have been arrested and are currently in prison accused of anti-state activities.

Elections

The party seems to lack direction, unable to decide how to challenge the government.

Traditionally, opposition parties in Bangladesh have held one day general strikes - Hartal - which bring the country to a standstill.

Hasina's leadership remains unchallenged

Yet this tactic has proved increasingly unpopular among the business community and overseas donors who argue that it is not the best method of exposing the government's failings.

Senior Awami League figures say that it is now time for a facelift.

The meeting in Dakar will amend the party's constitution, approve a new manifesto and charter fresh economic policy.

Elections are due to take place for several important posts.

One of those who may be promoted is Saber Hossain Chowdhury, the political secretary to the Awami League leader, Sheikh Hasina.

He is currently in prison where he faces several serious charges including sedition.

Colourful leader

Party leaders stress that although tough questions will be asked at this meeting, the position of Sheikh Hasina will not be challenged.

Her hold of the party founded by her assassinated father, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the first president of Bangladesh, is unassailable.

Sheikh Hasina remains the most colourful and authoritative figure in the Awami League but she faces a tough task if she is to turn her enfeebled party into a political force again.