Bangladesh Election 2026: Polling Underway for 13th Parliament and Reform Referendum
Bangladesh commenced voting on Thursday, February 12, 2026, in a pivotal election for its 13th parliament, coupled with a referendum on sweeping reforms. Polling opened at 7:30 am local time across 299 of the 300 parliamentary constituencies, continuing until 4:30 pm. This high-stakes contest marks a defining moment for the nation's democracy, following the 2024 mass uprising that ousted former prime minister Sheikh Hasina.
Top Leaders Cast Early Ballots in Dhaka
Prominent political figures exercised their voting rights early in the day. Tarique Rahman, chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and a frontrunner, voted at Gulshan Model School and College in Dhaka. He emphasized his commitment to improving law and order if elected. Meanwhile, interim government chief Muhammad Yunus, a Nobel Peace Prize laureate, cast his ballot in Gulshan, calling the election an opportunity to build "a new Bangladesh."
Referendum on Ambitious 84-Point Reform Package
Simultaneously, voters are deciding on an 84-point reform package introduced by Yunus's interim administration. If approved, the newly elected parliament could form a constitutional reform council to implement changes, including transitioning to a bicameral legislature. This referendum stems from a national charter signed by major parties, excluding the Awami League.
Election Reshaped by Sheikh Hasina's Exit
The vote is the first since the "Gen Z uprising" forced Hasina into exile in India. Her Awami League has been disbanded and barred from contesting, reshaping the race into a contest between the BNP and an 11-party alliance led by Jamaat-e-Islami. This exclusion has raised concerns about voter disenfranchisement among supporters of the former ruling party.
Massive Electorate and Security Measures
Over 127 million voters are eligible, with first-time voters comprising about 3.58% of the electorate. A total of 1,755 candidates from 50 parties and 273 independents are competing. Security has been a focus, with joint army and police forces addressing pre-poll allegations of vote stuffing and clashes. Despite an explosion injuring three at a polling station in Gopalganj, Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin described the process as peaceful.
Key Updates from the Ground
- Rahman Acknowledges Disturbances: Tarique Rahman reported overnight incidents but praised law enforcement's strict response, urging high voter turnout to thwart conspiracies.
- Jamaat Chief Calls for Calm: Shafiqur Rahman of Jamaat-e-Islami urged citizens to ignore rumors and emphasized the election as a turning point for change.
- Yunus's Interim Rule Nears End: The election is expected to conclude Yunus's 18-month interim administration, which began after Hasina's regime collapsed in August 2024.
- Large Field of Candidates: Voting in one constituency was postponed due to a candidate's death, while expatriate Bangladeshis are voting via a postal ballot system for the first time.
- Allegations and Monitoring: Media reported pre-poll irregularities, but international observers from the EU and Commonwealth are monitoring the process.
- Results Expected Friday: Balloting continues through Thursday, with results anticipated on Friday, shaping Bangladesh's political future and constitutional reforms.
The outcome of this election is crucial for restoring public trust in democratic institutions after years of upheaval, with implications for governance and national stability.
