Security and stability remain top priority for BNP Chairman
History is in the making across the border as voting for the 13th Bangladesh Parliamentary Elections 2026 began early Thursday morning. In a political landscape drastically different from previous years, millions of voters lined up at polling stations, eager to shape the future of the nation.
Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Chairperson Tarique Rahman was among the early voters, casting his ballot at the Gulshan Model High School and College in Gulshan-2. Emerging from the booth, Rahman exuded confidence, declaring that a victory for the BNP is "certain" if the process remains free and fair.
Rahman, who formally took the reins of the party following the recent passing of his mother and former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia, outlined his immediate goals. He emphasized that strengthening internal security is his primary agenda.
"We will prioritise improving law and order in the country so that people feel secure if we can form the government," Rahman stated. He further took to social media to encourage citizens to vote without fear, urging them to take ownership of the state and entrust their welfare to elected representatives.
This election marks a definitive end to the decades-long "Battle of Begums." With Khaleda Zia passed and the Awami League's registration suspended—barring Sheikh Hasina’s party from the fray—the political dynamics have shifted significantly.
According to reports from the ground, turnout has been impressive. Long queues were visible as early as 6:00 AM, reflecting a public hungry for transparent governance. Nearly 127 million eligible voters are expected to decide the fate of 1,981 candidates from 51 participating parties. Young voters are a crucial demographic this year, with over 4.5 million first-time voters aged 18 to 37 heading to the polls.
Simultaneously, the country is conducting a referendum on the 'National Charter 2025,' a foundational document drafted by the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus.
Voting is scheduled to continue without a break until 4:30 PM. The Election Commission has announced that counting will begin shortly after the polls close, with official results expected by the morning of February 13.
Inputs and Image: from Agency Inputs
