Chicago – February 12, 2026
The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has secured a resounding victory in the country’s landmark parliamentary election, clinching 151 seats in the 300-member Jatiya Sangsad to claim a simple majority, according to local broadcaster Ekattor TV.
The win marks the first polls since the 2024 Gen Z-led uprising ousted long-time Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, whose Awami League remains banned. Rival Jamaat-e-Islami garnered 42 seats, with its chief Shafiqur Rahman conceding early.
Polling on Thursday saw over 60% turnout, surpassing the prior 42%, amid 2,000+ candidates from 50 parties. BNP leader Tarique Rahman, son of ex-PM Khaleda Zia, promised economic boosts, anti-corruption drives, aid for the poor, and a 10-year PM term limit.
The result promises stability for the South Asian nation post-upheaval.
