The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has won a decisive two-thirds majority in general elections, a result anticipated to bring stability following months of unrest triggered by the ouster of former prime minister Sheikh Hasina in what was described as a Gen Z-led uprising.
A Landslide Victory
The latest counts, reported by domestic TV channels on Friday, indicate the BNP and its allies secured at least 212 of the 299 seats contested. The opposition Jamaat-e-Islami and its allies won 70 seats in parliament. This marks the BNP’s return to power after 20 years.
The BNP expressed gratitude to the electorate and called for special prayers on Friday for the nation. In a statement, the party announced it would refrain from celebratory processions or rallies despite the significant win.
Political Shifts and Referendum Results
The National Citizen Party (NCP), comprised of youth activists instrumental in the events leading to Hasina’s removal, secured only five of the 30 seats it contested as part of the Jamaat-led alliance. A clear election outcome was considered crucial for stability in the nation of 175 million, particularly given the disruption to key industries like garment manufacturing, where Bangladesh ranks second globally in exports.
Alongside the election, voters participated in a referendum on constitutional reforms, with television projections indicating approximately 65 percent support for the proposed changes. These reforms include term limits for prime ministers, stronger judicial independence, increased women’s representation, and provisions for neutral interim governments during elections, as well as the establishment of a second house in the 300-seat parliament.
Transition of Power and International Response
BNP leader Tarique Rahman, who returned to Dhaka in December after 18 years abroad, is widely expected to be sworn in as prime minister. The party’s manifesto prioritizes job creation, protection for low-income households, and fair prices for farmers. Garment worker Josna Begum, 28, expressed a desire for stability, stating, “If the factories run regularly and we get our wages on time, that’s what matters to us.”
International congratulations have been extended to Rahman and the BNP by leaders including India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, and the US ambassador to Bangladesh, Brent T. Christensen.
The Islamist Jamaat-e-Islami conceded defeat on Thursday night but expressed dissatisfaction with the process and urged its followers to remain patient.
Looking Ahead
Former prime minister Sheikh Hasina, currently in exile in New Delhi, has long been a dominant figure in Bangladeshi politics alongside Khaleda Zia. Hasina, who was sentenced to death in absentia for crimes against humanity, has denounced the election as “illegal and unconstitutional.”
Interim leader Muhammad Yunus, who will step down with the new government, has called for calm and national unity. He stated, “We may have differences of opinion, but we must remain united in the greater national interest.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the outcome of the recent elections in Bangladesh?
The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and its allies won at least 212 of the 299 seats in the general elections, securing a two-thirds majority.
Who is expected to become the next prime minister of Bangladesh?
BNP leader Tarique Rahman is widely expected to be sworn in as prime minister.
What changes were proposed in the referendum held alongside the election?
The proposed changes included two-term limits for prime ministers, stronger judicial independence, increased women’s representation, and provisions for neutral interim governments during elections, as well as the establishment of a second house in parliament.
As Bangladesh transitions to a new government, what challenges and opportunities do you foresee for the nation’s future?
