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Bangladesh Election Results Pending Amid Violence and Concerns

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  Published in Politics and Government on Thursday, February 12th 2026 at 19:50 GMT by Al Jazeera English
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Dhaka, Bangladesh - February 13th, 2026 - Polling stations across Bangladesh have officially closed, and the laborious process of counting votes is now underway. The nation holds its breath as preliminary results begin to trickle in, poised to determine whether Sheikh Hasina and her Awami League (AL) will achieve an unprecedented fourth consecutive term in power. The election, held today, Friday, February 13th, 2026, has been deeply shadowed by widespread violence, credible allegations of irregularities, and growing concerns regarding its overall fairness.

Al Jazeera is providing continuous live updates as the political landscape of Bangladesh potentially undergoes a significant shift. The past 15 years have seen consistent rule by the Awami League, a period marked by significant economic growth, but also increasingly criticized for authoritarian tendencies and a crackdown on dissent. This election was therefore considered a critical test of Bangladesh's democratic institutions and the rule of law.

The lead-up to the election was turbulent. The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), the primary opposition, spearheaded months of protests demanding Hasina's resignation and the establishment of a neutral caretaker government to oversee the elections. The BNP alleges that a free and fair election is impossible under the current administration, citing systematic rigging, intimidation of voters, and suppression of opposition supporters. These claims have been echoed by various international observers, who have reported restricted access to polling stations, instances of ballot stuffing, and a general atmosphere of fear.

Reports of violence have been widespread throughout the day. Clashes between supporters of the Awami League and the BNP have been reported in several districts, including Chittagong, Khulna, and Rajshahi. While the full extent of the violence is still being assessed, initial reports indicate multiple injuries and at least a dozen fatalities. The government has deployed a massive security force in an attempt to maintain order, but these efforts appear to have had limited success in preventing the escalation of tensions.

Analysts predict a complex outcome. While the Awami League enjoys a strong base of support, particularly in rural areas, the BNP has been gaining traction in urban centers, fueled by growing discontent over rising inflation, unemployment, and perceived corruption. The outcome could hinge on voter turnout, particularly among the youth demographic, who represent a significant portion of the electorate. Many young voters have expressed frustration with the political establishment and a desire for change.

The international community is watching closely. The United States, the European Union, and the United Nations have all issued statements calling for a peaceful and credible election. Concerns have been raised about the potential for the election results to exacerbate existing political instability in the region. Some experts warn that a disputed outcome could lead to prolonged unrest and even civil conflict.

Preliminary results are expected to begin emerging within the next few hours. These initial figures will provide a crucial indication of the overall trend, but a complete picture is unlikely to emerge for several days. The Election Commission has promised to investigate all allegations of irregularities and to ensure that the final results are accurate and transparent. However, the opposition has already expressed skepticism about the Commission's impartiality.

Al Jazeera's team on the ground is working to verify the preliminary results and to provide independent analysis of the evolving situation. We will continue to bring you the latest developments, including interviews with key stakeholders, expert commentary, and on-the-ground reporting. The future of Bangladesh's democracy hangs in the balance, and Al Jazeera is committed to keeping you informed every step of the way. The coming days are crucial for the political stability of Bangladesh, and the world watches with bated breath to see whether a peaceful transition of power is possible. The situation remains highly fluid, and the potential for further unrest is significant. Further reporting will explore the economic implications of the election outcome and the impact on Bangladesh's regional relationships.