Historic mandate brings BNP back to power after decades

Political history has been rewritten in Dhaka as the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) secured a massive mandate in the 13th general elections, ending a two-decade-long wait for governance. Early trends and results indicate a sweeping BNP election victory, signaling a complete transformation in the political landscape of India's neighboring nation.

Under the leadership of acting chairman Tarique Rahman, the party has staged a remarkable comeback. The BNP, which last tasted victory in 2001, has reportedly crossed the critical 151-seat threshold required to form a government. Local media reports suggest the BNP-led coalition is leading in over 209 constituencies, leaving little room for doubt regarding the final outcome.

While the BNP celebrates its resurgence, the results delivered a stinging blow to the Jamaat-e-Islami. Despite high expectations, the party was restricted to double-digit figures, securing only around 56 seats by early morning. Jamaat chief Shafiqur Rahman has publicly accepted the voters' verdict, stating his party would engage in positive politics rather than opposing for the sake of it.

Referendum and Public Sentiment

Beyond the parliamentary race, voters also showed strong support for constitutional reform. Unofficial results regarding the "July Charter"—a reform document emerging from the 2024 uprising—show that nearly 73% of counted votes favour the changes. This referendum ran alongside the general election, with voters using separate ballot papers.

Violence Mars Polling Day

Despite heavy security deployment, including the army and Border Guard Bangladesh, the election day was not entirely peaceful. Clashes erupted in various districts, resulting in injuries to over 70 individuals. The most intense violence occurred in Noakhali’s Hatiya, where supporters of rival factions clashed. However, authorities noted that no fatalities were directly linked to election violence, and international observers described the overall process as more festive than previous years.

According to the Election Commission, the voter turnout was robust, standing at approximately 60.69%. This election was particularly significant as it marked the first national vote since the major political upheavals of 2024 and took place without the Awami League on the ballot for the first time in thirty years.

Image Source: dubai Eye 103.8