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Bangladesh Holds Pivotal Election After Hasina's Removal

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  Published in Politics and Government on Thursday, February 12th 2026 at 6:40 GMT by reuters.com
      Locales: Dhaka, BANGLADESH

Dhaka, Bangladesh - February 12th, 2026 - Bangladesh is undergoing a pivotal moment in its history today as citizens participate in a general election, the first since the unprecedented removal of Sheikh Hasina, who served as Prime Minister for over a decade. Polling stations across the nation witnessed remarkably long queues, indicative of a populace eager to participate in shaping the country's future. The election is proceeding under stringent security protocols and is subject to heightened observation from the international community.

The atmosphere is one of cautious optimism mixed with palpable tension. For many Bangladeshis, this election represents a genuine opportunity for change after years of what critics described as increasingly authoritarian rule under Hasina and her Awami League party. The circumstances surrounding Hasina's ouster, while not fully detailed publicly, reportedly involved a combination of sustained public protests fueled by economic hardship and concerns about democratic backsliding, culminating in a negotiated transition facilitated by the military and senior party officials. This transition, while averting a potentially violent confrontation, has left a complex political landscape.

Preliminary reports suggest a robust voter turnout, exceeding expectations in many areas. Voters, young and old, braved hours-long waits, demonstrating a commitment to the democratic process. While the long lines are encouraging, they also highlight logistical challenges in a country with a rapidly growing population and often strained infrastructure. Concerns remain about ballot security and the potential for intimidation, despite the heavy presence of security forces - a joint operation involving the police, paramilitary Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB), and the army.

Numerous political parties are contesting the 300 parliamentary seats, creating a fragmented political field. The primary contenders include the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), historically the main opposition force led by Khaleda Zia (currently under house arrest, a situation that continues to be a source of contention), and a newly formed coalition dubbed the "Ganotantrik Jote" (Democratic Alliance), representing a diverse group of civil society leaders, academics, and former Awami League members disillusioned with the previous administration. There are also several smaller Islamist parties vying for representation, adding another layer of complexity to the political equation.

The central issues driving this election are multifaceted. Economic concerns dominate the public discourse. Bangladesh, while experiencing significant economic growth in the past decade, has seen a slowdown in recent years, exacerbated by global inflation and supply chain disruptions. Rising unemployment, particularly among young people, is a major grievance. Voters are demanding concrete plans to address poverty, improve access to education and healthcare, and create more sustainable economic opportunities. The new government will also have to address the critical issue of climate change, as Bangladesh is exceptionally vulnerable to the impacts of rising sea levels and extreme weather events.

Beyond economic matters, concerns about corruption and human rights are prominent. Transparency International consistently ranks Bangladesh poorly on its Corruption Perception Index, and allegations of widespread graft plagued the Hasina administration. The new government faces immense pressure to root out corruption and establish a more accountable governance system. Furthermore, human rights organizations have documented a rise in extrajudicial killings and restrictions on freedom of speech and assembly under the previous regime. Restoring civil liberties and ensuring the rule of law are crucial challenges.

International observers, representing organizations such as the European Union, the United Nations, and the Commonwealth, are closely monitoring the election. Their presence is seen as a vital safeguard against irregularities and a signal of support for a free and fair process. Early reports from these observers indicate that while the voting process appears generally peaceful, there have been isolated incidents of intimidation and allegations of ballot stuffing in certain areas. The Election Commission is investigating these claims.

The outcome of this election will undoubtedly shape Bangladesh's political trajectory for years to come. The new government will inherit a nation grappling with significant challenges, but also brimming with potential. The ability of the next administration to deliver on its promises of economic prosperity, social justice, and good governance will be critical to securing long-term stability and fostering sustainable development in Bangladesh.

(This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.)