Has BNP Secured a Clear Majority in Bangladesh Elections? Tarique Rahman Poised to Lead as Prime Minister
Synopsis
In a historic turn of events, the BNP has emerged victorious in Bangladesh's 13th parliamentary elections, with Tarique Rahman poised to take on the role of Prime Minister. This development marks a pivotal moment in the nation's political landscape after decades. Find out more about the election results and what this means for Bangladesh's future.
Key Takeaways
BNP claims 210 seats in parliamentary elections.
Tarique Rahman to become the next Prime Minister.
Historic return of male leadership after 35 years.
Strong voter turnout and engagement in the elections.
Major political shift anticipated in Bangladesh.
Dhaka, Feb 13 (NationPress) The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) along with its coalition partners has reported a significant win in the 13th parliamentary elections, according to local media sources on Friday, referencing unofficial results.
The results indicate that the BNP-led coalition has claimed 210 seats, paving the way for the establishment of a new government headed by the BNP.
As per reports from Bangladeshi Bengali Daily, Jugantor, party chairman Tarique Rahman is expected to assume the role of Prime Minister, marking the return of a male leader to the office after nearly 35 years.
After the vote count concluded late Thursday, various constituencies announced their unofficial results.
In the Dhaka-17 constituency, unofficial results indicated that Tarique garnered 72,699 votes, outperforming his nearest competitor, Jamaat-e-Islami candidate S.M. Khaliduzzaman, who received 68,300 votes, as reported by Bangladeshi Bengali daily Prothom Alo.
On Friday morning, Dhaka Divisional Commissioner (Returning Officer) Sharaf Uddin Ahmed Chowdhury made the results public, noting that voting occurred at 125 centres, including postal voting, in the Dhaka-17 area. Tarique won by a margin of 4,399 votes.
Moreover, Tarique was also unofficially elected from Bogra-6 constituency, achieving 216,284 votes from 150 centres. His closest rival, Jamaat candidate Abidur Rahman Sohel, managed 97,626 votes.
Earlier on Thursday, after casting his vote in the national elections, Tarique expressed his satisfaction and confidence in his party's success, as reported by local media.
He cast his vote at the Gulshan Model High School and College Centre in Dhaka. Speaking to reporters afterward, he remarked that the people of Bangladesh had anticipated this moment for over a decade, according to leading Bangladeshi news outlet UNB.
When questioned about his expectations for the election outcomes, the BNP chief expressed unwavering confidence in his party’s chances. He stated that he and his party are “100 percent hopeful” of victory.
Tarique is the son of former Bangladeshi President Gen. Ziaur Rahman, who came to power following a succession of coups and later founded the Bangladesh Nationalist Party before becoming president in 1977.
He is also the son of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, who led Bangladesh during two separate terms from 1991 to 1996 and from 2001 to 2006.
Following Khaleda Zia’s passing in December of last year, Tarique took the reins of the BNP and is now set to guide the nation.
Point of View
I observe that the BNP’s decisive win in the recent elections is a clear signal of the changing political tides in Bangladesh. Tarique Rahman's leadership marks a significant shift, and the nation is keenly watching how this will impact governance and public sentiment moving forward. It is crucial to approach the upcoming government with optimism while holding them accountable to the electorate's needs.
NationPress
8 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What does BNP's victory mean for Bangladesh?
BNP's victory indicates a shift in political power, potentially leading to significant changes in governance and policies that could affect the everyday lives of citizens.
Who is Tarique Rahman?
Tarique Rahman is the chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party and the son of former President Ziaur Rahman and former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia.
When did the elections take place?
The elections were held recently, with results being announced on February 13.
How many seats did the BNP-led alliance win?
The BNP-led alliance secured a total of 210 seats in the parliamentary elections.
What is the significance of this election for Bangladesh?
This election is significant as it marks a change in leadership after many years and reflects the political aspirations of the Bangladeshi people.
