Bangladesh parliamentary election results confirmed a decisive victory for the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), marking a turning point in the country’s political landscape.
Local television stations showed that the BNP secured a commanding majority in the 300-member Jatiya Sangsad. The vote was widely seen as crucial for restoring stability after months of unrest following the 2024 uprising that toppled former prime minister Sheikh Hasina.
The election was the first national vote since the Gen Z-led protests that disrupted daily life and impacted key industries, including the garment sector.
Bangladesh Parliamentary Election Results
According to reported results, the BNP-led coalition won 209 seats, achieving a two-thirds majority in parliament. This outcome aligns with pre-election opinion polls that gave the party an advantage.
Soon after securing a majority, the BNP thanked voters and urged supporters to avoid celebratory rallies. Instead, the party called for prayers across mosques, temples, churches, and pagodas for national welfare.
The BNP is led by Tarique Rahman, a leading prime ministerial contender and son of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia and former President Ziaur Rahman. His campaign pledged financial aid for low-income families, anti-corruption measures, and economic reforms focused on boosting foreign investment.
The Bangladesh Nationalist Party won a landslide parliamentary election, local TV stations showed, securing a resounding mandate in a pivotal vote that is expected to restore political stability in the South Asian nation https://t.co/sWQJOcJRTe
— Reuters (@Reuters) February 13, 2026Opposition Response and Referendum
Jamaat-e-Islami, the BNP’s main rival, secured 68 seats. Its leader, Shafiqur Rahman, conceded defeat and pledged “positive politics” rather than opposition for its own sake.
The National Citizen Party, which played a role in the anti-Hasina protests, won only a handful of seats despite contesting several constituencies.
Alongside the parliamentary vote, citizens participated in a referendum on constitutional reforms. Proposals included term limits for the prime minister, a bicameral legislature, stronger judicial independence, and increased women’s representation.
While there was no official announcement on the referendum’s outcome, local media reported a strong “Yes” vote among ballots counted.
Hasina Criticises the Process
Sheikh Hasina, currently in self-imposed exile in India, criticised the election. In a statement issued after polling closed, she described the vote as illegitimate and demanded fresh elections under a neutral caretaker government.
Her Awami League party was barred from contesting this election. Critics argue that past elections under her leadership were marred by allegations of boycotts and intimidation.
Read: Bangladesh Began Voting Today in First Election After 2024 Uprising
Despite controversy, turnout reportedly exceeded previous levels. Observers noted that the election featured a record number of parties and independent candidates.
The outcome now sets the stage for a new political chapter in Bangladesh. Analysts say the BNP’s strong mandate could help stabilise governance, although challenges remain in economic recovery and regional diplomacy.
