DHAKA: The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has taken a commanding lead in the ongoing general election results, emerging as the frontrunner with victories in 120 constituencies, according to preliminary and unofficial counts.
The Jamaat-e-Islami alliance has secured 38 seats, placing it in second position as vote counting continues across the country.
Election officials said the results are still being compiled, with final confirmations expected after the completion of counting in all constituencies.
Political observers note that the current trends indicate a strong performance by the BNP, which appears poised to play a decisive role in forming the next government.
Further updates are awaited as the Election Commission continues to release official figures.
Other results include: Jatiya Citizen Party – 1 seat, Islami Andolon Bangladesh – 1 seat, Jatiya Party – 1 seat and Independent candidates – 2 seats
Polling was held across 299 constituencies, starting at 7:30 AM local time and concluding at 3:30 PM. A total of 129 million registered voters participated, with 44% being young voters, highlighting the decisive role of the youth in this election.
BNP’s Tariq Rahman, son of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, is considered a frontrunner for the premiership. Jamaat-e-Islami’s Shafiqur Rahman is also seen as a strong contender.
The National Citizen Party (NCP), led by Zain Zee, allied with Jamaat-e-Islami, also plays a role in shaping the coalition dynamics.
Reports indicate a hand grenade explosion at a polling station in Gopalganj, Dhaka, injuring three people and partially damaging the entrance. In total, 300,000 security personnel, including army and police, were deployed to ensure a peaceful polling process.
Voters cast ballots on two separate papers – a white ballot for parliamentary candidates and a pink ballot for the July National Charter referendum, which seeks public approval for constitutional reforms proposed by 32 political parties. Out of 300 parliamentary seats, 50 are reserved for women, and the Prime Minister will be elected from among the parliamentarians.
The Chief Election Commissioner described the polls as “one of the most significant in Bangladesh’s history” and urged political parties, candidates, and voters to respect democratic norms and accept the results peacefully.
