Bangladesh began voting today in its first national election since the deadly 2024 uprising that ended Sheikh Hasina’s long rule.
Long queues formed outside polling stations across the country as citizens turned out to cast their ballots. The vote is widely seen as a defining moment for Bangladesh’s democratic future.
Interim leader Muhammad Yunus described the day as historic. He said the election would determine the country’s direction and the strength of its democracy.
The main contest is between Tarique Rahman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and Jamaat-e-Islami chief Shafiqur Rahman.
Tarique Rahman, 60, has expressed confidence that the BNP can return to power. However, Jamaat has mounted a strong grassroots campaign. If victorious, it would lead to the first Islamist-led government in constitutionally secular Bangladesh.
Polls open in landmark election in Bangladesh, after a student-led uprising in 2024 ousted former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina
Mohammad Kamruzzaman has the latest from Dhaka pic.twitter.com/bBvoEc6Rz6
— TRT World Now (@TRTWorldNow) February 12, 2026Voters are also deciding on constitutional reforms through a nationwide referendum. The proposals include prime-ministerial term limits, an upper house of parliament, stronger presidential powers, and greater judicial independence.
Yunus has described these reforms as essential to prevent a return to one-party rule. His interim government barred Sheikh Hasina’s Awami League from contesting the election. Hasina, who was ousted in August 2024, was later sentenced in absentia over charges linked to the crackdown on protesters. She remains outside the country.
Bangladeshis lined up outside polling booths as voting began for what many say is a pivotal election for the South Asian nation, marking a return to democracy after the 2024 ouster of long‑time premier Sheikh Hasina in a Gen Z‑driven uprising https://t.co/3mhb05wWQ3
— Reuters (@Reuters) February 12, 2026Authorities deployed more than 300,000 security personnel to ensure a smooth voting process. Polls opened in the morning and will close later today, with manual counting to follow.
Analysts say the election is a crucial test of democratic renewal. They stress that fairness, transparency, and acceptance of results will be vital for political stability.
Read: Shafiqur Rahman Emerges as Key Contender in Bangladesh Election
The next government will inherit economic pressures and rising unemployment. Bangladesh, one of the world’s largest garment exporters, faces financial strain and delicate regional relations.
Tarique Rahman has pledged to restore stability and create jobs. Meanwhile, Jamaat has campaigned on promises of justice and anti-corruption reforms.
In his final address before polling, Yunus urged citizens to place national interest above party agendas. He called for unity and respect for democratic outcomes. As Bangladesh began voting today, the results will shape not only political leadership but also the country’s future governance structure.
