Bangladesh is set to hold its 13th general election on Thursday . The country last held general elections in 2024, when Sheikh Hasina became Prime Minister. However, following the coup in August 2024, fresh national elections are being conducted again in 2026. Alongside the general election, voters will also participate in a referendum. Electors will be required to answer either “yes” or “no”. If the majority votes in favour, the incoming government will be legally obligated to implement a package of constitutional reforms, known as the July Charter, through Parliament.
Battle For 300 Parliamentary Seats
Bangladesh has a population of approximately 173 million, of which around 90 per cent are Muslims and roughly 9 per cent are Hindus. The Hindu community is regarded as a minority in the country.
Elections are being held for all 300 parliamentary constituencies, and a party or alliance must secure at least 151 seats to form the government. In addition, 50 seats are reserved exclusively for women. These seats are allocated to political parties in proportion to their overall vote share.
Voting is taking place simultaneously across 64 districts within the country’s eight administrative divisions.
A total of 59 political parties are contesting the election. Including both party nominees and independent candidates, 1,981 contenders are in the fray across the 300 constituencies.
Under Bangladeshi law, any citizen aged 25 or above is eligible to stand for election and contest a parliamentary seat.
Awami League Out, Voter Mood Uncertain
The absence of the Awami League has left a significant political vacuum. Observers say its supporters could influence the outcome, either by abstaining or by backing alternative parties. However, many believe traditional Awami voters are unlikely to shift towards Jamaat-e-Islami.
In Dhaka University, conversations with students reflect a generation seeking stability. Members of Gen Z speak of peace, democratic continuity and improved ties with India. Yet many remain undecided between the BNP alliance and Jamaat-backed formations. Some say their answer will come directly through the ballot.
Concerns are also visible among minorities. A Hindu student, Deepti, expressed anxiety about post-election conditions, particularly if Jamaat were to come to power, citing fears over religious freedom and women’s autonomy.
Rise Of ‘Two Rahmans’
Bangladesh’s political narrative has shifted from the era of “two Begums” to what some now call the contest of “two Rahmans”, Shafiqur Rahman of Jamaat-e-Islami and Tarique Rahman of the BNP.
Jamaat-e-Islami, once banned and long marginalised for opposing Bangladesh’s independence from Pakistan, is contesting 224 seats, with its allies fielding candidates elsewhere. The party has formed a broad alliance, including the student-led NCP, though the partnership has sparked internal dissent.
Critics describe Jamaat’s ideology as conservative, particularly on women’s rights; notably, it has fielded no female candidates. Nevertheless, its manifesto promises improved relations with neighbouring countries, including India.
Across Dhaka, black-and-white campaign posters blanket the streets, a traditional feature of Bangladeshi politics. Local journalist Zahid Rahman describes the contest as “neck and neck” between Jamaat and BNP, with citizens celebrating the election atmosphere almost like Eid.
Amid the rivalry, one message echoes from tea stalls to campuses: many Bangladeshis want stable governance and stronger ties with India, viewing the relationship as vital for the country’s future.