Voting began across Bangladesh on Thursday, February 12, 2026, for the parliamentary elections. The election is being seen as an important test for the country’s democracy after several years of political unrest and instability.
People started arriving at polling stations early in the morning to cast their votes. Security has been increased across the country to ensure peaceful voting. Election officials said arrangements have been made to allow voters to participate safely and smoothly.
The main contest is between two political groups led by former allies — the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and the Islamist Jamaat-e-Islami. Recent opinion polls suggest that the BNP may have an advantage in the race. However, the final result will depend on voter turnout and counting of ballots.
This is the first election since former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s government fell in 2024 following weeks of mass protests. After the protests, she left the country. Her party has been banned from taking part in this election.
Political observers say the outcome of this election will shape Bangladesh’s future political direction and determine how stable the country will be in the coming years. Vote counting is expected to begin soon after polling ends.