Bangladesh Election Result 2026 Highlights: Ex-Chief Justice SR Ahmed to administer oath to newly-elected MPs

On behalf of the BNP, we thank Prime Minister Modi for his wishes. We believe that under the leadership of Tarique Rahman, relations between India and Bangladesh will strengthen, says veteran BNP leader Nazrul Islam Khan

Election Commissioner Abdur Rahmanel Machud said the gazette notification of the 13th National Parliament election results will be published by  Saturday.

Speaking to reporters on Friday night, he said the results could be officially gazetted either today or tomorrow. He also clarified that there is no scope for a recount of votes in the controversial Dhaka-8 constituency.
 

Former Minister of State for External Affairs MJ Akbar on Friday said the results of Bangladesh’s 13th National Parliamentary Elections reflect a clear signal about voters’ priorities, especially the influence of women voters.
Speaking to ANI, Akbar said, "The biggest message of this election is that the Bangladeshi women have demolished the Jamaat-e-Islami. They have done so because Jamaat represented an anti-women platform." He alleged that the Jamaat's campaign relied heavily on religious messaging. "The Jamaat actually promised salvation in the next life. It promised freedom from sins. Well, these are very, very good things, but people don't vote in elections for salvation in the next life; they want a better life in this one.
 

A referendum on the implementation of a reform package saw a 60.26 per cent voter turnout in Bangladesh, with the 'yes' vote winning a clear majority, the Election Commission announced on Friday.

The voting for the 13th parliamentary elections was held on Thursday along with the referendum on the complex 84-point reform package, known as the July National Charter.

The referendum saw a 60.26 per cent voter turnout, the Election Commission (EC) said.

As per the official figures, 4,80,74,429 votes were cast in favour of "yes", while 2,25,65,627 voters chose "no", EC Senior Secretary Akhtar Ahmed said while talking to reporters at the EC.

The referendum had sought people's consent to the July National Charter 2025, which Interim government chief Muhammad Yunus announced on October 17 after protracted consultations between the political parties and the National Consensus Commission that he headed.
 

National Citizens Party (NCP) convener Nahid Islam has alleged that results in several constituencies of the 13th National Parliament elections were deliberately altered through rigging. Speaking at a press briefing on February 13 at the Jamaat-e-Islami central office in Moghbazar, Dhaka, he claimed that manipulation had affected the true outcome in some seats. Addressing the media on behalf of the 11-party electoral alliance, Nahid called for transparency and demanded a proper investigation into the alleged irregularities.

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif extended “heartfelt felicitations” to BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman during a “warm and cordial telephone call” following the party’s “historic and resounding victory” in Bangladesh’s general elections. Sharif conveyed his best wishes and reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening “brotherly ties” with Bangladesh. He emphasized building on the legacy of Begum Khaleda Zia and advancing shared goals of peace, progress, and prosperity, expressing hope for closer cooperation between the two nations in the coming years.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio congratulated the Bangladesh Nationalist Party and its leader Tarique Rahman on their electoral victory. In a message shared on social media, Rubio also extended his congratulations to the people of Bangladesh. He stated that the US looks forward to working closely with the newly elected government to strengthen bilateral ties, advance shared prosperity, and promote regional security. The message signals Washington’s intent to engage constructively with Bangladesh’s new leadership.

Bangladesh Awami League President Sheikh Hasina strongly condemned the 13th National Parliamentary Election, calling it "a carefully orchestrated sham election" and "a disgraceful chapter in the country’s democratic history". She alleged it was “not an election of public opinion” but marked by “industrial-scale administrative manipulation and numerical fraud.” Under what she termed the “illegal Yunus administration,” Hasina said the process “has robbed people of their voting rights.”

She demanded authorities "annul this voterless, illegal, and unconstitutional election," ensure the resignation of the government, release political detainees, lift restrictions on the Awami League, and hold a free, fair election under a neutral caretaker government.

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has refused to accept the election results in the Pabna-3 (Chatmohar-Bhangura-Faridpur) and Pabna-4 (Ishwardi-Atgharia) constituencies, alleging irregularities in the vote count, as reported by Prothom Alo. In protest, BNP leaders and activists besieged the offices of the deputy commissioner and the district returning officer from Friday afternoon, demanding an immediate recount of ballots and a transparent review of the results.

A day after the BNP’s election victory, local party leaders in Panchagarh Upazila unlocked the previously sealed Awami League (AL) office, signalling a conciliatory gesture in the area. BNP leader Abu Dawood Prodhan took the initiative to reopen the office, a move that was welcomed by residents across political lines.

Speaking to local media, Prodhan said activists from both the BNP and the Awami League should work together to maintain peace and stability in the locality. The development has been viewed by many as a positive step toward easing tensions and fostering cooperation following the closely watched polls.

-Indrajeet Kundu inputs

Bangladesh's retired Chief Justice Dr Syed Refaat Ahmed will swear in the members elected to the 13th National Parliament, acting as the President’s designated representative. Sources at Bangabhaban confirmed that he has been formally appointed for this role.

The possibility was earlier indicated on February 5 by Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs Adviser Dr. Asif Nazrul, who outlined the constitutional procedure in the absence of a sitting Speaker.

Under normal circumstances, MPs are administered the oath by the Speaker or Deputy Speaker. However, following the developments linked to the mass uprising of 2024, the responsibility has been assigned to the President’s nominee.

West Bengal Assembly Speaker Biman Banerjee commented on the BNP’s sweeping win in Bangladesh, stating that the electorate has clearly expressed its desire for harmony and stability. He emphasised that ordinary citizens in Bangladesh wish to live without communal tensions and prefer peaceful coexistence.

According to him, while certain political groups may attempt to promote division, the broader public rejects such agendas. Drawing from his personal visit to the country, Banerjee observed that both Hindus and Muslims aspire to maintain mutual respect and unity. He added that the election outcome reflects a strong public stand against communalism and in favor of social harmony.

-Input by Tapan Kumar Naskar

Strategic analysts believe the recent election outcome in Bangladesh could open a new chapter in relations with India. With the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) heading for a decisive win, experts anticipate renewed diplomatic engagement after nearly two years of strained interactions. Former Indian envoys have described the development as encouraging for both nations, expressing hope for stronger political and economic cooperation.

The vote followed months of unrest and uncertainty after the fall of Sheikh Hasina’s long-standing government. Observers suggest that a stable administration under the BNP may help restore confidence, strengthen regional security, and improve bilateral ties between the neighbouring countries.

-PTI

Following its sweeping electoral victory, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party has renewed calls for the return of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina from India to stand trial. Senior leader Salahuddin Ahmed said the party backs diplomatic efforts already initiated by Bangladesh’s foreign ministry to pursue her extradition through legal channels. He stressed that the matter rests between the two governments and should proceed in accordance with established laws and agreements.

While pressing for her return, the BNP also underscored its desire for balanced and respectful ties with neighbouring countries, including India, based on mutual dignity, cooperation, and sovereign equality.

-PTI

Dhaka–1: BNP’s Khondkar Abu Ashfaq defeated Jamaat’s Mohammad Nazrul Islam, winning 173,781 votes to 112,622.

Dhaka–2: BNP’s Amanullah Aman won with 163,020 votes against Jamaat’s Abdul Haque, who secured 78,655.

Dhaka–3: BNP’s Gayeshwar Chandra Roy secured victory with 98,785 votes over Jamaat’s Shahinul Islam, who received 82,232.

Dhaka–4: Jamaat’s Syed Zainul Abedin won by about 3,000 votes, securing 77,367 against BNP’s Tanvir Ahmed’s 74,447.

Dhaka–5: Jamaat’s Mohammad Kamal Hossain won with 96,641 votes, defeating BNP’s Md. Nabi Ullah, who got 87,491.

Dhaka–6: BNP’s Ishraque Hossain won with 78,850 votes, beating Jamaat’s Md. Abdul Mannan, who received 55,697.

Dhaka–7: BNP’s Hamidur Rahman won with 104,666 votes, narrowly defeating Jamaat’s Md. Enayet Ullah, who got 98,483.

Dhaka–8: BNP’s Mirza Abbas Uddin Ahmed won, securing 5,239 more votes than Mohammad Nasir Uddin Patwari of the 11-party alliance.

Dhaka–9: BNP’s Habibur Rashid won with 111,212 votes, ahead of NCP’s Mohammad Jabed Mia (53,460) and independent Tasnim Jara (44,684).

Dhaka–10: BNP’s Sheikh Rabiul Alam won with 80,436 votes, defeating Jamaat’s Md. Jasim Uddin Sarkar, who received 77,136.

Dhaka–11: NCP’s Nahid Islam won by 2,039 votes, securing 93,872 against BNP’s MA Quayum’s 91,833.

Dhaka–12: Jamaat’s Md. Saiful Alam won with 53,773 votes, defeating BNP alliance candidate Saiful Haque, who received 30,963.

Dhaka–13: BNP-backed Bobby Hajjaj won with 88,387 votes, defeating Mamunul Haque, who received 86,067.

Dhaka–14: Jamaat’s Mir Ahmad Bin Kasem won with 101,113 votes, beating BNP’s Sanjida Islam, who secured 83,323.

Dhaka–15: Jamaat chief Shafiqur Rahman won with 85,131 votes, defeating BNP’s Md. Shafiqul Islam Khan, who got 63,517.

Dhaka–16: Jamaat’s Md. Abdul Baten won with 88,828 votes, narrowly defeating BNP’s Md. Aminul Haque, who received 85,467.

Dhaka–17: BNP’s Tarique Rahman won with 72,699 votes, defeating Jamaat’s S M Khaliduzzaman, who secured 68,300.

Dhaka–18: BNP’s S M Jahangir Hossain won with 144,715 votes, defeating NCP’s Ariful Islam, who received 111,297.

Dhaka–19: BNP’s Dewan Mohammad Salauddin won with 190,976 votes, beating NCP’s Dilshana Parul, who got 125,283.

Dhaka–20: BNP’s Md. Tamiz Uddin won with 160,428 votes, defeating NCP’s Nabila Tasnid, who secured 56,343.

Exiled Bangladeshi author Taslima Nasreen shared a strong reaction to the general election outcome, saying her relief stemmed not from the BNP’s victory but from the defeat of what she described as Islamist extremist forces. In a detailed post on X, she accused such groups of promoting violence, suppressing women’s rights and targeting minorities.

Nasreen outlined a series of expectations from the new political leadership. She called for restoring secularism in the Constitution, ending religion-based laws and ensuring equal rights for women. She also urged protection of free speech, minority communities and democratic principles, alongside reforms in education and healthcare.

Her statement further advocated lifting political bans, rebuilding Liberation War memorials and improving ties with India. She demanded the release of certain Political detainees and bloggers who fled abroad, and pressed for firm action against extremist elements. Her remarks have sparked debate across political and social circles.

Nazrul Islam Khan, chief of BNP’s polls coordination committee, responded to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s congratulatory message to party chairman Tarique Rahman. He expressed appreciation on behalf of the BNP for the message and said the party views it positively.

Khan added that under Tarique Rahman’s leadership, relations between Bangladesh and India would grow stronger, fostering closer cooperation and deeper ties between the governments and people of both neighbouring countries in the years ahead.

Following his party’s landslide win in the 13th National Parliament Election, BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman greeted well-wishers as he left his Gulshan residence to attend Friday prayers. 

Before departing for the Navy Headquarters Mosque, Tarique briefly paused his vehicle and stepped out to meet those gathered. He interacted warmly with supporters, asking some about their backgrounds and listening to their messages of encouragement. 

Expressing appreciation for the public’s support, Tarique conveyed his gratitude and requested their prayers as he prepared for the responsibilities ahead. After exchanging greetings, he continued to the mosque, where he joined other worshippers to offer Juma prayers, marking a significant moment following his party’s victory.

As the counting of 299 seats has been over, the BNP has achieved a thumping two-thirds majority with 213 seats. Jamaat-E-Islami, on the other hand, has won 76 seats.

The Jamaat-E-Islami has hinted at massive vote tampering across constituencies in the country. Through a Facebook post, the party wrote, "Dear fellow citizens, we express our sincere gratitude to you for casting your votes in large numbers throughout the day in such a positive and peaceful atmosphere. However, we are not satisfied with the process surrounding the election results. From candidates of the 11-party alliance narrowly and suspiciously losing in various constituencies, to repeated inconsistencies and fabrications in unofficial result announcements, the Election Commission’s reluctance to publish voter turnout percentages, and indications that a section of the administration leaned towards a major party- all of this undoubtedly raises serious questions about the integrity of the results process. Therefore, we urge everyone to remain patient and await the official programme of the 11-party alliance. Our struggle for justice in pursuit of a humane Bangladesh will continue, Insha’Allah."

The Chief Minister of West Bengal, Mamata Banerjee, has congratulated the people of Bangladesh and Tarique Rahman for the landsliding victory in the 13th general elections. 

"My hearty congratulations, shubhonandan, to all my brothers and sisters, all the people, in Bangladesh. My advance Ramazan mubarak to all of them. For this great victory, my congratulations to my Tarique-Bhai, his party, and all the parties. Pray, you all be well and happy. Wish that our relations with Bangladesh be always cordial," she wrote on X.

Krishna Nandi, the only candidate of the Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami, has been defeated by a wide margin in the Khulna-1 constituency, reported Desh Rupantor.

Krishna received 70,346 votes and his opponent from the BNP, Amir Ejaz, Khan secured 121,352 votes to win the seat.

Jamaat's ATM Azharul Islam has won the Rangpur-2 seat in Bangladesh's parliamentary elections. The victory comes less than a year after being acquitted by the Supreme Court in a 1971 war crimes case, following the collapse of Sheikh Hasina's regime.

In May 2025, the Bangladesh Supreme Court overturned his death sentence in a case linked to atrocities during the 1971 Liberation War. Azharul Islam, a senior member of Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami, had previously been convicted and sentenced to death for charges that included the killing of over 1,200 people and the rape of 13 women during the war.

His acquittal during the Yunus regime marked one of the most controversial judicial reversals in recent years.

The Jatiya Party (JP), a former ally of Sheikh Hasina's Awami League, failed to win a single seat in the Bangladesh elections, marking one of the most humiliating defeats in its history.

Despite fielding candidates in 196 constituencies, the party drew a complete blank nationwide.

The setback was particularly severe in Rangpur division, long considered its political stronghold. The party did not secure any seat in the region, and even its top leadership suffered defeats.

Party chairman GM Quader lost the Rangpur-3 constituency after polling 37,933 votes. The seat was won by Jamaat-backed candidate Md Mahbubur Rahman Belal with 1,57,403 votes, while the BNP's Shamsuzzaman Samu finished second with 74,171 votes. Notably, GM Quader did not even go out to vote on Thursday, reported Desh Rupantor.

As per the Election Commission of Bangladesh, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP)-led alliance has secured 181 out of 300 seats and is inching closer towards the two-thirds majority mark. The official result for all the constituencies will be announced soon.
 

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has swept all the major districts like Dhaka, Barisal and Tangail. The party has won seven out of eight seats in Tangail and all five district seats in Dhaka.

As per the trends shared by the local Bangladeshi news publications, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party has crossed the 200+ mark. As per news outlets Ekattor TV and Jamuna TV, the BNP has secured 208 and 212 seats, respectively. The final figure is yet to be announced.

The Indian National Congress President, Mallikarjun Kharge, congratulated Tarique Rahman on his party's historic electoral success. 

"On behalf of the Indian National Congress, I congratulate Mr. Tarique Rahman and the BNP for winning the Parliamentary elections in Bangladesh," Kharge wrote on X,

Amid the National Citizens Party's poor show in its maiden electoral run, Hasnat Abdullah, the party's chief organiser, has secured victory in Cumilla 4 seat.

The Jamaat-E-Islami Ameer Shafiqur Rahman has secured the Dhaka 15 seat amid the party's disappointing electoral show. 

(Source: Daily Star)

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) leaders will offer prayers in several mosques to pay homage to the deceased soul of Khaleda Zia.

Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif congratulated Tarique Rahman for "leading the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) to a resounding victory" in the country's parliamentary elections. He also congratulated the people of Bangladesh on the successful conduct of the polls.

Sharif said he looked forward to working closely with the new Bangladeshi leadership to further strengthen ties and to "advance their shared goals of peace, stability and development in South Asia and beyond."

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar reposted PM Modi's statement congratulating Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) leader Tarique Rahman after his party secured a decisive win in the Bangladesh elections. "India will continue to stand in support of a democratic, progressive and inclusive Bangladesh. I look forward to working with you to strengthen our multifaceted relations and advance our common development goals," PM Modi tweeted.

The National Citizens Party (NCP) alleged a massive fraud in poll results in multiple Dhaka seats after the party put up a disappointing show in its maiden electoral run.

The violence against minorities continues in Bangladesh amid the ongoing electoral counting. A Hindu man's house was torched in Dinajpur and as a result, he lost properties worth lakhs.

On the historic victory of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party in the 13th general election, Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated BNP's Tarique Rahman.
 

"I convey my warm congratulations to Mr. Tarique Rahman on leading BNP to a decisive victory in the Parliamentary elections in Bangladesh.  This victory shows the trust of the people of Bangladesh in your leadership. India will continue to stand in support of a democratic, progressive and inclusive Bangladesh. I look forward to working with you to strengthen our multifaceted relations and advance our common development goals," PM wrote on X.

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party has registered a landslide electoral success in Dhaka as it has won all five Dhaka district seats, including Dhaka 1,2, 3, 19, and 20.

The United States became the first country to congratulate Tarique Rahman and the BNP for the historic victory in the 13th general election of Bangladesh. 

"Congratulations to the people of Bangladesh on a successful election and to the Bangladesh Nationalist Party and Tarique Rahman on your historic victory. The United States looks forward to working with you to realize shared goals of prosperity and security for both our countries," the US ambassador to Bangladesh wrote on X.

Amid disappointment in poll performance, Nahid Islam, the convenor of the National Citizen Party (NCP), has won the Dhaka 11 seat. 

Nahid has successfully defeated MA Quayum of the BNP by 2,000 votes.

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) chairperson, Tarique Rahman, urged supporters for prayers and not to hold a victory procession after the party has secured a landslide victory in the 13th general election.

The party will hold a prayer mahfil after results are officially declared.

 

The Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami on Friday alleged that the Election Commission was deliberately delaying the announcement of results in several constituencies.

Party Assistant Secretary General Ahsanul Mahboob Zubair claimed that certain officials linked to the Commission were intentionally slowing down the process.

“Counting for yesterday’s election and referendum results started from 5:00 pm. It is now nearly 4:00 am, yet we are witnessing unusual delays in the process by those involved with the Commission,” Zubair told reporters at the Election Commission office in Agargaon, Dhaka.

The party further alleged manipulation in the counting process and warned that it would launch a movement against those found responsible for any irregularities.

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party is all set to secure a historic victory after almost 25 years. The supporters gathered on the streets with loud cheers and sloganeering.

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party-led coalition has crossed the two-thirds majority mark in the 13th general election of Bangladesh, securing a lead in 209 of 300 seats. 

The BNP is presently leading with 165 seats. Party chairman Tarique Rahman leads in both of his constituencies, Bogura 6 and Dhaka 17.

(Updates from Jamuna TV)

The BNP Secretary General, Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, has secured a handsome lead in the Thakurgaon-1 national constituency. Currently, he leads with nearly 2.5 lakh votes.

(Report from Daily Star)

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party is sweeping the 13th general election in Bangladesh. At present, the party is leading with 165 seats. The closest rival, Jamaat-E-Islami, has secured a lead in 62 seats. 

Mahdi Amin, BNP Spokesperson and Advisor to Tarique Rahman, addressed the press after his party secured a resounding lead in the 13th general elections. 

In his address, Amin informed that the party Chairperson, Tarique Rahman, is leading in both of his constituencies, Bogura 6 and Dhaka 17. 

He also accused the party rivals of manipulating elections by forceful rigging and several other ways. 

 

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party has congratulated the people of Bangladesh after crossing the majority mark in the 13th general election. The party is presently leading in 151 out of 300 seats, and has declared victory. Tarique Rahman is all set to become the newly elected Prime Minister. 

Vote counting continued across Bangladesh on Friday, with local media reporting results based on provisional figures released by district-level election officials.

Returning officers in various constituencies have been announcing preliminary tallies, which are being used by television channels and newspapers to project outcomes. However, the official results website of the Bangladesh Election Commission remains inaccessible, delaying access to verified nationwide data.

Officials said the process takes time as results are first recorded manually at each polling station, signed by presiding officers and representatives of contesting candidates, and displayed publicly. Copies are then transported under security to constituency returning officers, who compile centre-wise data.

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) on Friday said it had secured a majority in the parliamentary elections and was preparing to form the next government.

The party shared messages on social media celebrating its electoral gains. “The Bangladesh Nationalist Party is set to form the government after winning the majority of seats,” the BNP Media Cell said in a statement.

Vote counting in Bangladesh is expected to be completed by around 11 am, according to election officials.

Early results point to a strong political comeback of Khaleda Zia's family, with the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) securing a commanding lead in the parliamentary polls.

So far, official results from 174 constituencies have been released, showing the BNP winning 135 seats. Counting is still under way in 125 constituencies. The Islamist party Jamaat-e-Islami has so far been limited to 34 seats, indicating a major setback in the current elections.

With inputs from Ashutosh Mishra 

National Citizens Party (NCP) candidate Atiqur Rahman was unofficially declared the winner in the Kurigram-2 constituency after a closely fought contest.

According to preliminary results, Atiqur secured 178,869 votes, narrowly defeating BNP candidate Sohel Hossain Kaikobad, who received 170,335 votes. Election officials said the figures were based on initial counts and would be formally confirmed after verification.

Supporters of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) celebrated across the country on Friday after the party secured a decisive victory in the parliamentary elections.

Television footage showed crowds surrounding the vehicle of BNP leader Tarique Rahman, with supporters cheering and waving as he left his office following confirmation of the results. Preliminary counts indicated that the BNP had won 185 seats in the 300-member Jatiya Sangsad, comfortably crossing the majority mark needed to form a government.

Shafiqur Rahman, chief of the Islamist Jamaat-e-Islami, the BNP’s main rival, conceded defeat after his party secured only 56 seats.
 

BNP candidate Dipen Dewan was unofficially declared the winner in the Rangamati constituency after securing a decisive lead in the vote count.

According to officials, Dewan received 2,01,544 votes, while his closest rival, independent candidate Pahel Chakma, polled 31,222 votes. The results were announced by Deputy Commissioner Najma Ashrafi at the primary results collection and presentation centre, located in the conference room of the Deputy Commissioner’s office.

More than 70 people were injured in a series of violent incidents linked to voting across Bangladesh, according to a local media report. Bangladeshi daily The Daily Star said at least 72 people were hurt in 14 separate clashes and disturbances during polling. Several of the incidents were reported near or inside polling centres.

The report added that law enforcement agencies detained at least nine people in connection with the violence.

India will wait for the final results of Bangladesh’s elections before forming any official view, the Ministry of External Affairs said on Wednesday.

Responding to questions on New Delhi’s position, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said the outcome was expected shortly. “As far as the Bangladesh elections are concerned, it is a matter of a few hours. Please wait a little. Once the outcome comes out, we will then see how we should assess it and form our understanding of it,” he told reporters in New Delhi.

India has declined Bangladesh’s invitation to send election observers for its national elections, the Ministry of External Affairs confirmed.

Addressing a press briefing in New Delhi, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said India had received the request but decided not to deploy any monitoring team. 

“We did receive an invitation to send observers. We have not sent our observers to Bangladesh to observe the elections,” he said. 

According to Bangladeshi daily The Daily Star, around 400 international observers and nearly 200 foreign journalists were present to monitor the polls and the accompanying referendum.

Bangladesh Khelafat Majlis Ameer Maulana Mamunul Haque has alleged irregularities in the ballot counting process in the Dhaka-13 constituency, claiming that a faulty ballot design led to the cancellation of thousands of votes cast in his favour. Backed by the Jamaat-eIslami-led 11-party alliance, he filed a formal complaint with Returning Officer Md Yunus Ali at the Bangladesh Election Commission headquarters in Agargaon, according to The Daily Star.

He urged authorities to review the counting process before finalising the results.

The National Citizen Party (NCP) on Friday alleged widespread irregularities in vote counts across several constituencies and called on the Bangladesh Election Commission to review disputed seats before releasing final results. “We are getting clear evidence of result tampering aimed at the 11-party alliance’s top candidates,” NCP spokesperson Asif Mahmud Shojib Bhuyain told an emergency press conference in Dhaka’s Bangla Motor area early Friday. He said the party had found discrepancies between media reports, centre-wise tallies and figures announced by returning officers in several constituencies.

In Bangladesh’s Gazipur district, candidates from the Bangladesh Nationalist Party and Jamaat-e-Islami Bangladesh have secured victories in unofficial results. In Gazipur-3, BNP nominee SM Rafiqul Islam won with 161,258 votes, defeating Muhammad Ehsanul Haque of the Bangladesh Khelafat Majlis, who received 99,354 votes. Meanwhile, in Gazipur-4, Jamaat candidate Salahuddin Ayubi secured 96,911 votes, ahead of BNP’s Shah Riazul Hannan, who polled 87,505 votes, according to preliminary figures released by election officials.

In Bangladesh’s Dhaka-8 constituency, Bangladesh Nationalist Party candidate Mirza Abbas Uddin Ahmed has been declared the unofficial winner after defeating his nearest rival Nasiruddin Patwari by more than 5,000 votes. Dhaka Divisional Commissioner and Returning Officer Sharaf Uddin Ahmed Chowdhury announced the results at 3:15 am on Friday. Mirza Abbas received 56,552 votes from polling stations and an additional 2,814 postal votes, taking his total to 59,366.

In Bangladesh’s Khulna-1 (Batiaghata and Dakop) constituency, Bangladesh Nationalist Party candidate Amir Ejaz Khan has been declared the winner in unofficial results after securing 121,352 votes from 120 polling stations. His closest challenger, Krishna Nandi of Jamaat-e-Islami Bangladesh, received 70,346 votes, according to preliminary figures released by election officials.

In Bangladesh’s Thakurgaon district, candidates of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party won all three parliamentary seats in unofficial results. BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir secured Thakurgaon-1 (Sadar) with 238,836 votes, defeating Jamaat-e-Islami Bangladesh nominee Delwar Hossain, who received 141,170 votes. In Thakurgaon-2, BNP candidate Abdus Salam won with 121,170 votes against Jamaat’s Abdul Hakim, who secured 115,707 votes. Meanwhile, Zahidur Rahman claimed Thakurgaon-3 with 132,797 votes, ahead of Jamaat candidate Mizanur Rahman, who received 91,934 votes, according to preliminary figures released by election officials.

All you need to now about Bangladesh’s Tarique Rahman:

• Born on November 20, 1965, in Dhaka to Ziaur Rahman and Khaleda Zia, two of Bangladesh’s most influential political figures.
• Left Bangladesh in 2008 after detention during an anti-corruption crackdown under a military-backed government.
• Lived in self-imposed exile in London for nearly two decades as his party was sidelined and leaders jailed.
• Faced multiple corruption and criminal cases under Sheikh Hasina’s rule, which he denied as politically motivated.
• Watched from abroad as BNP struggled in successive elections and political space shrank.
• Sheikh Hasina’s government fell in August 2024 following a youth-led uprising.
• Returned to Bangladesh in December 2024 to a hero’s welcome after years in exile.
• Was cleared of past cases following the change in government.
• Took direct control of BNP’s campaign, candidate selection and alliance strategy.
• Led the BNP alliance to cross the majority mark in the 13th national election.
• Is now poised to become Prime Minister for the first time.
   

With the Bangladesh Nationalist Party poised to win the 13th national election, party chairman Tarique Rahman has urged supporters to show restraint and focus on prayers rather than celebrations. 

He directed party leaders and activists at all levels to arrange special prayers across the country after Jumma prayers and instructed them not to organise victory rallies or public gatherings. The directive was conveyed by his press secretary, Saleh Shibly, as the party moved to project calm.

Voter turnout in Bangladesh’s 2026 parliamentary election rose to nearly 61 per cent, marking a significant increase from the low participation recorded in the 2024 polls, according to data released by the Bangladesh Election Commission. Official figures show turnout stood at 60.7 per cent in 2026, compared with 41.8 per cent in 2024, while earlier elections recorded 51.3 per cent in 2014 and 82.6 per cent in 2018. Election officials said the higher participation reflected renewed public engagement following last year’s political turmoil.

Unofficial results from Bangladesh’s referendum also indicate strong public support for the July Charter, a reform document born out of the 2024 uprising that proposes major constitutional changes.

According to The Daily Star, about 72.9 per cent of counted votes were in favour of adopting the charter, while 27.1 per cent were opposed. However, the Bangladesh Election Commission has yet to release official results, and authorities said the final outcome would be confirmed after the completion of vote counting.
 

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party secured a parliamentary majority in Bangladesh’s 13th national election after early morning vote counting showed the party winning 151 constituencies. 

Initial results also indicated that Jamaat-e-Islami Bangladesh would emerge as the main opposition force with 43 seats. Election officials said results were still being compiled nationwide, but trends pointed to a decisive outcome.

Bangladesh has deployed more than 150,000 police officers to guard polling stations ahead of national elections, with authorities flagging over half of the country’s voting centres as vulnerable to unrest. Inspector General of Police Baharul Alam said security agencies were “1,000 percent confident” of maintaining order. 

“More than 24,000 polling centres have been marked as either high-risk or moderately risky” out of around 42,000 nationwide, he told reporters in Dhaka, citing concerns over possible violence, unrest and ballot manipulation.

In Bangladesh’s Nilphamari-1 constituency, Jamaat-e-Islami Bangladesh candidate Maulana Abdus Sattar has been declared the winner in unofficial results after securing 149,214 votes. His closest challenger, Manjurul Islam Affendi of Jamiat-e-Islami Bangladesh, received 118,160 votes, according to preliminary figures released by election officials.

The Bangladesh Election Commission on Thursday said nationwide voter turnout in Bangladesh’s 13th parliamentary election stood at 60.69 per cent. The commission reported postal ballot participation at 80.11 per cent, while the overall valid vote rate was recorded at 70.25 per cent.

Officials said the figures reflected strong engagement, particularly among overseas and postal voters, as final results continued to be compiled.

The chief of Jamaat-e-Islami Bangladesh, Shafiqur Rahman, said on Thursday that his party would not pursue “politics of opposition” for its own sake, signalling acceptance of the election outcome as counting continued. 

“We will do positive politics,” he told reporters, as the Bangladesh Nationalist Party led in 131 seats, moving closer to the 151 needed for a majority in the 300-member parliament. Analysts said a clear result is vital for political stability in the country of about 175 million people, following months of unrest that disrupted daily life and hurt key industries, including the garment sector.

Senior Awami League leader AFM Bahauddin Nasim has strongly rejected Bangladesh’s national election, calling it “one-sided” and illegitimate. “These are one-sided elections announced by the illegal Election Commission of an illegal and unconstitutional government in Bangladesh,” he said. 

“A section of the population of Bangladesh has been kept away from these elections. There is just one party in Bangladesh which is banned - Awami League… There is just drama in the name of elections. People of the country have been deceived. People have understood that these elections have no base. Winner is pre-decided,” he added.

In Bangladesh’s Brahmanbaria-2 constituency, independent candidate Rumeen Farhana has secured a decisive victory in unofficial results, winning by a margin of 37,568 votes. She received 117,495 votes under the duck symbol, while her closest rival, Maulana Junaid Al Habib of the BNP-led alliance and Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam Bangladesh, secured 79,927 votes under the palm tree symbol. The constituency covers Sarail, Ashuganj and parts of Bijoynagar, with counting completed in 151 polling centres.

In Bangladesh’s Lakshmipur-1 (Ramganj) constituency, Bangladesh Nationalist Party candidate Shahadat Hossain Selim has been declared the winner in unofficial results after securing 85,457 votes. His closest challenger, Md Mahbub Alam of the National Citizen Party, received 56,436 votes. Assistant Returning Officer and Ramganj Upazila Executive Officer Farashid Bin Enam announced the results around midnight.

In Bangladesh’s Chittagong-12 (Patia) constituency, Bangladesh Nationalist Party candidate Mohammad Enamul Haque has been declared the winner in unofficial results after securing 134,080 votes. His closest challenger, Syed Air Mohammad Payaru of the Bangladesh Islamic Front, received 28,777 votes, while Jamaat-e-Islami Bangladesh nominee Mohammad Faridul Alam secured 20,942 votes. Assistant Returning Officer Farhanur Rahman announced the results at 1 am (lcoal time).

In Bangladesh’s Chittagong-15 (Satkania-Lohagara) constituency, Jamaat-e-Islami Bangladesh candidate Shahjahan Chowdhury has been declared the winner in unofficial results after securing 172,061 votes. His closest rival, Bangladesh Nationalist Party nominee Nazmul Mustafa Amin, received 127,025 votes, while Shariful Alam Chowdhury of Islami Andolan Bangladesh got 2,873 votes. The results were announced at 11:30 pm by Assistant Returning Officers Saiful Islam and Khondaker Mahmudul Hasan. The constituency has a total electorate of 5,06,059 voters and 157 polling stations across Satkania and Lohagara.

The Bangladesh Election Commission on Thursday expressed gratitude to political parties, candidates and other stakeholders for their cooperation in holding the 13th national election and referendum in a free, fair and impartial manner. 

In a press release issued by the Public Relations Department of the Election Commission Secretariat, the EC thanked law enforcement agencies, government and private officials, election observers, media personnel, voters and the public for helping ensure a peaceful and festive electoral environment. The commission said the collective and responsible roles of all involved contributed to the smooth conduct of the polls across the country.

Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin on Thursday described the 13th national election as one of the best in the country’s history by any standard, expressing satisfaction over its conduct. “If you judge, it can be considered a pretty good election. I am feeling good,” he said. “We promised to present an election in a festive atmosphere. We promised to present a completely neutral and credible election to the nation and we do believe we have achieved it. Everyone is recognising this.”

More than 80 per cent of registered voters cast their ballots through the postal voting system, according to the Bangladesh Election Commission. Local media reported that 80.11 per cent of approved registrants voted using the “Postal Vote BD” app. 

Salim Ahmad Khan, team leader of the OCV-SDI project on expatriate voter registration, told local media that 15,28,131 voters were approved, of whom 12,24,188 cast their votes. Returning officers received 11,65,592 postal ballots, representing 76.28 per cent of the total, with 10,73,497 ballots accepted as valid, accounting for 70.25 per cent.

In Bangladesh’s Barisal-5 (Sadar-City Corporation) constituency, Bangladesh Nationalist Party candidate Mujibur Rahman Sarwar has been declared the winner in unofficial results after securing 133,060 votes. His closest challenger, Mufti Syed Muhammad Faizul Karim of Islami Andolan Bangladesh, received 93,216 votes, according to figures released by the Returning Officer’s office. A total of 257,519 votes were cast in the constituency, with 7,706 ballots declared invalid, while 2,98,130 votes were counted as valid.

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party took a commanding early lead in Bangladesh’s 13th National Parliament elections on Thursday, with its candidates ahead in more than 175 seats, while the Jamaat-e-Islami Bangladesh was leading in around 30 constituencies, according to local media. The vote was held to form a new government after the collapse of the Awami League administration in August 2024, which led to the installation of an interim government. Counting is still underway.BNP surges ahead with leads in 175 seats

In Bangladesh’s Chittagong-3 (Sandwip) constituency, Bangladesh Nationalist Party candidate Mustafa Kamal Pasha has been declared the winner in unofficial results after securing 72,353 votes under the paddy sheaf symbol, while Jamaat-e-Islami Bangladesh nominee Muhammad Ala Uddin received 37,157 votes under the scales symbol. Assistant Returning Officer Mangchingnu Marma announced the results at 11:30 pm. A total of 4,784 postal votes were cast, and the constituency has 2,60,485 registered voters.

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP)-led alliance is heading for a landslide victory in Bangladesh’s 13th National Parliament election, leading by a wide margin in early results. According to local media, out of 129 declared seats, the BNP alliance has won 96, the Jamaat-e-Islami Bangladesh-led bloc has secured 32, and an independent candidate has won one. BNP chairman Tarique Rahman also recorded decisive victories in the Dhaka-17 and Bogra-6 constituencies as counting continues.

In Bangladesh’s Feni-2 constituency, Bangladesh Nationalist Party candidate Joynal Abdin is leading with 43,521 votes, while AB Party Bangladesh chairman Mohammad Mujibur Rahman Bhuiyan, backed by a Jamaat-led alliance, has secured 24,124 votes, based on results from 50 polling centres. Returning Officer Monira Haque announced the unofficial figures as counting continued in the constituency, which has 146 centres and a total electorate of 4,37,078 voters.

In Bangladesh’s Pirojpur-3 constituency, Bangladesh Nationalist Party candidate Md Ruhul Amin Dulal is leading with 41,664 votes, while Islami Andolan Bangladesh nominee Md Rustom Ali Faraji has secured 23,734 votes, based on results from 57 polling centres. The constituency, covering Mathbaria Upazila, has a total of 85 polling stations, with counting still underway.
 

In Bangladesh’s Brahmanbaria-6 constituency, BNP-backed candidate Jonayed Saki, chief coordinator of the Gana Sanghati Andolon, is leading with 16,407 votes, while Jamaat-e-Islami Bangladesh nominee Md Mohsin has secured 5,958 votes, based on results from 19 of 98 polling centres. Returning Officer Sharmin Akhter said voter turnout stood at 52.24 per cent in the constituency, which has a total electorate of 2,89,674, as counting continues.

In Bangladesh’s Pirojpur-2 constituency, Jamaat-e-Islami Bangladesh candidate Shamim Sayeedi is leading with 12,298 votes, while Bangladesh Nationalist Party nominee Ahmed Sohel Manjur has secured 12,051 votes, based on results from 23 polling centres. The constituency, covering Bhandaria, Kaukhali and Nesarabad, has 166 centres in total, with 1,804 ‘yes’ votes and 9,855 ‘no’ votes recorded so far as counting continues.

In Bangladesh’s Noakhali-1 constituency, Bangladesh Nationalist Party candidate AM Mahbub Uddin Khokon is leading with 34,426 votes, while Jamaat-e-Islami Bangladesh nominee Md Saif Ullah has secured 24,937 votes, based on results from 40 of the 142 polling centres. District Returning Officer and Deputy Commissioner Muhammad Shafiqul Islam announced the partial results as counting continues.

In Bangladesh’s Kurigram-2 constituency, National Citizen Party candidate Atiqur Rahman Mojahid is leading as counting continues, securing 1,22,498 votes from 134 centres, while BNP nominee Md Sohel Hossain has received 1,16,272 votes. The constituency, covering Sadar, Rajarhat and Phulbari, has 205 polling stations and a total electorate of 6,04,736 voters, with results from several centres still awaited.

In the 2026 Bangladesh national parliamentary election, the BNP-led alliance emerged as the largest bloc with 76 seats, followed by the Jamaat-led alliance with 19 seats, while other parties and independents secured four seats. Bangladesh’s parliament, known as the Jatiya Sangsad, has a total of 300 seats, with 151 needed to form a simple majority.
 

BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman has won the Bogra-6 constituency, securing victory in the parliamentary seat as counting concluded.

Bangladesh National Party (BNP) chief Tarique Rahman, former Bangladesh Prime Minister Khaleda Zia's son, has won the Bogra-6 constituency, according to the party's Facebook page.

Awami League leader AFM Bahauddin Nasim on Wednesday termed the upcoming Bangladesh elections as “one-sided” and accused the authorities of functioning under an “illegal and unconstitutional government.” Speaking in Kolkata, Nasim alleged that a significant section of the population has been excluded from the electoral process and noted that the Awami League is the only party currently banned. He claimed the party had won 11 of the last 13 elections in 54 years and was barred due to its widespread support. Nasim further alleged deteriorating human rights, absence of rule of law, and said the election outcome appears “pre-decided.”