Bangladesh Prepares for 2026 Election After Leader Leaves

Bangladesh is getting ready for a big election in 2026. The leader, Sheikh Hasina, is no longer in power. The Awami League and the BNP are the main parties. This election will decide the country's path forward.
By Newsroom | Politics, Bangladesh |

The nation of Bangladesh faces a critical juncture as it heads towards the 2026 general election. The political landscape is marked by the recent departure of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and a deep-seated rivalry between the Awami League and the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), each leading multi-party alliances. This election is framed not merely as a contest of political parties but as a choice between different visions for the country's past and future. With approximately 127 million voters eligible, the February 12, 2026 polls will elect 350 members to the Jatiya Sangsad, Bangladesh's parliament, in what is described as the biggest election since the nation's independence.

Historical Underpinnings of Current Tensions

Bangladesh's electoral journey has roots tracing back to its struggle for independence. The early years of the nation were characterized by post-war reconstruction, famine, and internal dissent, as highlighted by the challenges faced by Sheikh Mujibur Rahman's government. West Pakistan's refusal to transfer power after the 1970 elections precipitated political unrest, culminating in a military crackdown and the subsequent Liberation War.

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  • Early Electoral Divisions: The country's troubled electoral path began even before independence, setting a precedent for complex political dynamics.

  • Dominant Political Families: The emergence of Sheikh Hasina and Khaleda Zia as leading figures initiated a long-standing political rivalry, shaping much of Bangladesh's post-independence political narrative. Zia became the country's first female prime minister, marking a significant moment in Bangladeshi politics.

  • Awami League's Trajectory: The Awami League experienced periods of marginalization, notably during the presidencies of Ziaur Rahman and Hussain Muhammad Ershad. Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, a student activist at the time, became a central figure in the party's early development.

The Political Arena: Key Actors and Alliances

The upcoming election sees the BNP positioned as a prominent contender, leading a diverse coalition of parties. This alliance includes the Jamaat-e-Islami, Bangladesh Khelafat Majlis, Nizam-e-Islam Party, Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), and several others, indicating a broad-based opposition front. The Awami League, once a dominant force, now faces challenges following the recent political upheaval.

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  • BNP's Electoral Strategy: The BNP seeks to foster collective progress through regional partnerships and has outlined a manifesto focusing on religious freedom and zero tolerance for terrorism. The party has also raised concerns about "unusual" voter migration preceding the polls.

  • Awami League's Position: Despite the recent shift in leadership, Sheikh Hasina's influence on voters who previously supported the Awami League remains a notable factor.

  • Jamaat-e-Islami's Role: The BNP's alliance with Jamaat-e-Islami has been a subject of internal discussion, with some critics noting a potential clash between the parties' historical stances, particularly concerning Bangladesh's independence.

Pre-Election Environment and External Dynamics

The legitimacy of the upcoming elections is intrinsically linked to the government's ability to control violence and ensure the credibility of the referendum. Concerns about violence during the election period have been amplified by security warnings from the US embassy, signaling a heightened risk of extremist threats. The level of engagement from the US and the EU is expected to be contingent on the perceived legitimacy of the electoral process.

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  • Domestic Governance Concerns: Controlling violence and ensuring fair voting are paramount for domestic governance legitimacy.

  • Foreign Policy Considerations: Bangladesh's strategic location between India and China, coupled with its deep ties with India, makes its political stability crucial for regional security and economic growth. Global powers are closely observing the situation.

  • Potential Outcomes: Analysts suggest a base case scenario of a BNP victory, potentially leading to a manageable coalition government. This could usher in selective reforms and a balanced foreign policy approach. However, localized violence and negotiations with Islamist groups might constrain the depth of any reform agenda.

Test of Political Resilience

The fall of the Awami League has precipitated a significant political crisis, presenting a profound test of Bangladesh's resilience. Restoring political stability is seen as a formidable challenge, underscoring the high stakes of the forthcoming election. The outcome will not only determine the country's leadership but also shape its future direction amidst complex internal and external pressures.

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  • National Significance: The election transcends a mere political contest, serving as a crucial barometer of the nation's ability to navigate political challenges.

  • Broader Implications: Bangladesh's political stability is interconnected with the broader security and economic dynamics of South Asia.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: When is the next election in Bangladesh?
The next general election in Bangladesh is planned for February 12, 2026.
Q: Who are the main political parties?
The two main parties are the Awami League and the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP).
Q: How many people can vote?
About 127 million people are allowed to vote in this election.
Q: What is special about this election?
It is expected to be the biggest election in Bangladesh since the country became independent.