The parliamentary election held on Thursday was Bangladesh's first vote since the 2024 Gen Z-driven uprising that toppled long-time premier Sheikh Hasina. It was also the first national election to follow recent revolts led by the under-30s that have cropped up through the wider region. Despite the landslide result, the election had been seen as Bangladesh's first truly competitive vote in years. Turnout appeared on track on Thursday to exceed the 42% recorded in the last election in 2024. More than 2,000 candidates - including many independents - were on the ballot, and at least 50 parties contested seats, a national record.

Source: The Star February 13, 2026 14:46 UTC