Elections – Bangladesh Votes Amid Political Upheaval and Reform Push
Elections – Bangladesh is set to hold a pivotal general election on February 12, marking the first nationwide vote since the dramatic political shift that followed the resignation of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in August 2024. The polls come at a time of uncertainty and transition, with voters not only choosing members of parliament but also deciding on proposed constitutional reforms through a parallel referendum.
A Changed Political Landscape
The political environment has shifted significantly in the months leading up to the election. The absence of the Awami League from the race has altered traditional electoral calculations and opened space for new alignments.
The main contest is shaping up between the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami. The BNP, a long-established political force with previous experience in government, entered the campaign widely viewed as the frontrunner. Historically, the party has secured more than 30 percent of the vote in past elections.
Jamaat-e-Islami, which typically received less than 10 percent support in earlier contests, is now seeking to expand its footprint. Party leaders say they have strengthened grassroots connections and are prepared to compete more aggressively than in previous cycles.
Emergence of a New Alliance
Adding complexity to the race is the National Citizen Party (NCP), formed in the wake of the mass protests that led to Hasina’s departure. Though it gained visibility during the movement, the NCP has struggled to sustain that early energy.
The NCP is contesting 30 of the 300 parliamentary seats as part of an 11-party alliance led by Jamaat-e-Islami. In total, around 50 political parties are participating in the election, including left-leaning groups and several Islamic parties. Some of these smaller parties have aligned with the Jamaat-NCP bloc, which has also championed the constitutional referendum.
Dual Ballots Add Complexity
For voters, this election will be different from previous ones. Each registered voter will receive two ballots—one to elect a member of parliament and another to vote on constitutional amendments.
The referendum has introduced additional debate into an already competitive race. Supporters argue that constitutional reform is necessary to strengthen democratic institutions, while critics question both the timing and the scope of the proposed changes.
The Election Commission has cautioned that counting may take longer than usual due to the dual-ballot system and the expected rise in voter participation. In earlier elections, results were typically announced within 12 to 20 hours.
Security Concerns and Preparations
Security remains a central concern. Since the election schedule was announced, nearly 400 incidents of poll-related unrest have been reported, with at least five fatalities linked to clashes.
Authorities say extensive preparations are in place to maintain order. More than 700,000 security personnel have been deployed across 42,761 polling centers nationwide. Officials have expressed confidence that voting will proceed without major disruption.
Despite these assurances, both the BNP and Jamaat have voiced reservations about the Election Commission’s readiness. Leaders from both sides have raised concerns about fairness and transparency, suggesting that the environment must remain neutral to ensure credible results.
Public Expectations and Participation
In Dhaka and other major cities, many residents have traveled back to their hometowns to cast ballots, reflecting the continued importance of local constituencies in national politics. Political parties have reportedly assisted supporters with transportation arrangements, a common feature of past elections.
The absence of the Awami League has prompted debate about voter turnout and the broader legitimacy of the process. Domestic and international observers had urged a more inclusive election, but the vote will proceed without several established parties.
Even so, many citizens see February 12 as a decisive moment. The outcome is expected to influence Bangladesh’s political direction and institutional stability in the years ahead. While public confidence in state institutions remains measured, voters across the country are hoping for a process that is peaceful, orderly, and reflective of the electorate’s will.