Bangladesh Election 2026: Key Parties, Power Shifts and Issues to Watch

Bangladesh will hold national elections on February 12, marking its first polls since a student-led uprising ousted long-time leader Sheikh Hasina in August 2024, reshaping the country’s political landscape.

Awami League Barred After Deadly Crackdown

The Awami League, once the country’s dominant force, has been barred from contesting after Sheikh Hasina was found guilty of allowing lethal force against protesters, leading to around 1,400 deaths, mostly students and teenagers.

Sheikh Hasina Sentenced in Absentia

Now living in exile in India, Hasina has been handed the death penalty in absentia by a Bangladesh court, a move that has deeply polarised political opinion ahead of the polls.

Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP)

The BNP, founded in 1978 by former President Ziaur Rahman, promotes Bangladeshi nationalism, economic liberalism, and anti-corruption reforms, and remains one of the strongest contenders in the race.

Leadership Transition Challenges for BNP

Following the death of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, the party is now led by her son Tarique Rahman, who returned after 17 years in exile. Surveys suggest the BNP could win 33–35 per cent of the vote.

Jamaat-e-Islami Re-Enter Political Arena

Previously banned under Sheikh Hasina, Jamaat-e-Islami resurfaced after the uprising and is led by Shafiqur Rahman, who advocates governance under Sharia law while attempting to widen the party’s appeal.

Jamaat’s Reform Pitch and Controversies

The party promises a corruption-free system but has drawn criticism over comments on women’s leadership. Polls indicate Jamaat could secure 30–34 per cent support in the upcoming election.

Minority Outreach by Jamaat

In a notable move, Jamaat has fielded its first Hindu candidate, Krishna Nandi, signalling efforts to attract minority voters ahead of the polls.

National Citizen Party (NCP)

Formed by student leaders after the 2024 uprising, the National Citizen Party is led by 27-year-old Nahid Islam and aims to turn protest energy into political power.

Reform-Focused Agenda of NCP

The NCP’s 24-point manifesto includes constitutional reform, judicial independence, free media, universal healthcare, education access, and climate resilience.

Organisational Hurdles for NCP

Despite its ambitious vision, the party faces weak organisational networks and limited funding, placing it far behind BNP and Jamaat in opinion polls.

Restoring Democracy Tops Voter Concerns

With Bangladesh governed by an interim administration led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, voters are focused on restoring democratic rule after months of political uncertainty.

Proposed July Charter Referendum

The government plans a national referendum on the “July Charter”, which proposes women’s reservation in parliament, prime ministerial term limits, stronger presidential powers, and judicial independence.

Economic Recovery After Political Turmoil

Political unrest disrupted Bangladesh’s garment-driven export economy, making job security, industrial stability, and growth key election issues.

Foreign Policy Shifts Post-Uprising

The uprising strained ties with India, opening space for China to expand influence — a shift that could shape Bangladesh’s future foreign policy direction.

Governance and Judicial Reform in Focus

Corruption and judicial politicisation remain major concerns, with parties promising reforms to strengthen rule of law and accountability.

Press Freedom Remains a Key Issue

After years of media restrictions, restoring press freedom has emerged as a major demand among voters ahead of the 2026 elections.