Campaigning Begins in Bangladesh for Crucial 2026 Election

Campaigning has officially begun for Bangladesh’s national election scheduled for February 12, 2026, marking the first major political contest since the 2024 uprising that led to the ouster of longtime Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. The election is viewed as a pivotal moment for the country’s democracy, with the interim government under Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus aiming to ensure a free and fair process.

The election will decide the 350 lawmakers of Bangladesh’s parliament and determine the future direction of the country’s political landscape. Yunus, known for his role in lifting millions out of poverty through Grameen Bank, returned from exile to lead a caretaker government after the uprising in July 2024. His interim administration has pushed for reforms to curb corruption and prevent a return to authoritarianism, with the July National Charter, which includes proposals for term limits and anti-corruption measures, at the heart of the election campaign.

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), led by Tarique Rahman, son of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, has launched its campaign in Sylhet, with thousands of supporters rallying behind Rahman, who is viewed as a leading contender for the position of Prime Minister. Rahman, who returned to Bangladesh in December 2025 after 17 years in exile, promised to carry forward his parents’ legacy.

The Jamaat-e-Islami party, part of a 10-party alliance, is also vying for power. The party, which faced a brutal crackdown during Hasina’s rule, is seeking to regain influence and could pose a significant challenge to the established political parties. Some supporters, like Mohammad Jalal in Dhaka, view Jamaat’s image as "clean" and support their vision for the country’s future.
 

Despite the optimism, the campaign is marred by concerns over the spread of disinformation, with Yunus warning of fake news flooding social media platforms. The country’s Election Commission suspended the Awami League party, which was previously led by Hasina, in May 2025, barring them from participating in the election.

This election, seen as the largest democratic process of 2026, will have profound implications for Bangladesh's political future. As the country prepares for February 12, all eyes are on the outcome of this historic vote.