BNP wins Bangladesh election in historic landslide

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) secured a massive victory in the national parliamentary election on Friday, marking a historic shift after the 2024 uprising that ended Sheikh Hasina’s long rule.

Highlights

• BNP coalition won 209 of 300 seats in the Jatiya Sangsad.
• Tarique Rahman is the leading contender for the Prime Minister role.
• Voter turnout reached 60%, significantly higher than the previous vote.
• Pakistan and India offered congratulations to the winning party.
• Sheikh Hasina denounced the election from exile, calling it a farce.

Landslide Mandate for Change

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) dominated the polls, securing a two-thirds majority in the 300-member parliament. This election was the first since the Gen Z-led movement toppled the previous administration. Local media reports indicate the BNP-led coalition won 209 seats, providing a mandate to restore stability. Party leaders urged supporters to celebrate through prayers at religious sites rather than public rallies to maintain peace.

Opposition and Referendum Results

The Jamaat-i-Islami, the BNP’s main rival in this cycle, conceded defeat after winning 68 seats. Party head Shafiqur Rahman stated they would engage in positive politics rather than obstruction. Alongside the vote, a referendum on constitutional reforms saw a 73% ‘Yes’ vote. These reforms include two-term limits for prime ministers and the establishment of a neutral interim government for future elections.

Regional and International Reactions

Leaders from Pakistan and India quickly acknowledged the result. Pakistan’s President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif congratulated Tarique Rahman, expressing hope for improved trade and regional cooperation. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi also hailed the ‘decisive victory,’ stating India will support a democratic and inclusive Bangladesh. Meanwhile, Sheikh Hasina issued a statement from India calling for the cancellation of what she described as an illegal election.