Dhaka, Bangladesh – In a sweeping victory that signals a dramatic shift in Bangladeshi politics, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has claimed a decisive win in the country’s general elections. The results, finalized in 249 of 299 constituencies as of Friday, show the BNP and its allies securing 181 seats, while the Jamaat-e-Islami and its partners have taken 61. The outcome marks the end of a period of political upheaval that began with the ousting of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in July 2024, following widespread student-led protests.
Tarique Rahman, son of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia and chairman of the BNP, is poised to become the next prime minister of Bangladesh. Rahman, who returned to Bangladesh in December 2025 after 17 years in self-imposed exile, has been instrumental in galvanizing support for the BNP. He secured wins in both Dhaka-17 and Bogura-6, demonstrating his broad appeal across the country.
The election was largely framed as a direct contest between the BNP and the Jamaat-e-Islami, with the Awami League, previously led by Sheikh Hasina, barred from participation following its removal from power. This absence of the long-ruling Awami League created a unique political landscape, allowing both the BNP and Jamaat to vie for dominance.
While the BNP celebrates its return to power – having last held office between 2001 and 2006 – the Jamaat-e-Islami has raised concerns about the integrity of the election results. Allegations of “abnormal delays” and “result tampering” have been leveled, with the party warning of potential protests if the outcome is not seen as reflecting the public will. Similar accusations have come from the National Citizen Party (NCP), an 11-party right-wing alliance allied with Jamaat, particularly regarding results in Dhaka.
The Jamaat-e-Islami, Bangladesh’s largest Islamist political party, emerged from the East Pakistani wing of the Jamaat-e-Islami Pakistan in 1979. It has been a significant force in Bangladeshi politics for decades, often serving as a key partner in coalition governments. However, this election saw a notable decline in its performance, a result analysts attribute to a number of factors, including shifting voter demographics and a growing rejection of hardline Islamist ideologies.
The NCP, formed in the wake of the 2024 student uprising and led by Nobel Peace Prize laureate Muhammad Yunus, also faced setbacks in the election. The party’s performance suggests that the momentum generated by the initial protests did not fully translate into electoral success.
The victory for the BNP comes after a prolonged period of political instability in Bangladesh. The student-led movement that led to Sheikh Hasina’s ouster in was fueled by widespread discontent over economic conditions, political repression, and alleged corruption. The subsequent interim administration struggled to maintain order and pave the way for free and fair elections.
The BNP’s campaign focused on promises of economic reform, improved governance, and a restoration of democratic institutions. Tarique Rahman, in particular, emphasized the need to address the concerns of young voters, a demographic that played a crucial role in the 2024 uprising. The party also benefited from a strategic alliance with other opposition groups, allowing it to broaden its base of support.
The international community is watching the situation in Bangladesh closely. The United States, the European Union, and other major powers have called for a peaceful transition of power and urged all parties to respect the outcome of the election. Concerns remain about the potential for political violence and the need to safeguard democratic freedoms.
The coming months will be critical for Bangladesh as the BNP prepares to form a new government. Tarique Rahman faces the daunting task of addressing the country’s numerous challenges, including poverty, inequality, and climate change. He will also need to navigate a complex political landscape and build consensus among diverse stakeholders.
Rahman has already signaled a cautious approach, urging his supporters to refrain from large-scale celebrations and instead engage in prayer. This measured response suggests a desire to prioritize stability and national unity as he embarks on his new role as prime minister.
The election results also highlight a potential generational shift in Bangladeshi politics. The rise of the BNP, led by a younger generation of leaders, reflects a growing demand for change and a rejection of the old guard. The performance of the NCP, while ultimately disappointing, demonstrates the potential for new political forces to emerge and challenge the established order.
The future of the Jamaat-e-Islami remains uncertain. The party’s decline in electoral fortunes raises questions about its long-term viability and its ability to adapt to the changing political landscape. Some analysts suggest that the party may need to reassess its ideology and strategy in order to regain its relevance.
As Bangladesh enters a new era under BNP leadership, the country stands at a crossroads. The challenges are significant, but the opportunity for positive change is also immense. The success of the new government will depend on its ability to address the needs of all Bangladeshis and build a more inclusive and prosperous future.
