The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has declared a sweeping victory in the country’s first national election since the deadly 2024 uprising, with party leader Tarique Rahman widely projected to become the next prime minister. While the Election Commission has yet to release the final tally, the United States moved quickly, congratulating Rahman and the BNP on what it called an “historic victory,” according to a statement from its embassy in Dhaka.
Rahman had voiced confidence ahead of polling, saying his party long suppressed during Sheikh Hasina’s 15‑year rule was poised to return to power. Senior BNP figure Salahuddin Ahmed echoed that sentiment on Friday, saying the outcome reflected the aspirations of young Bangladeshis who led the uprising. But he cautioned that the moment called for resolve, not celebration, as the party prepares to confront “mounting challenges” in rebuilding a nation free from discrimination.
By early Friday morning, broadcasters projected that the BNP had surged well past the 150‑seat threshold needed for a parliamentary majority, with Jamuna TV reporting the party had secured 212 seats. The Islamist‑led coalition headed by Jamaat‑e‑Islami was projected to win 70 seats a dramatic improvement from previous elections but far short of the outright victory it had sought. Jamaat chief Shafiqur Rahman has not yet commented on the projections.
The Election Commission said it expects to release official results for 299 of the 300 constituencies by late Friday morning. An additional 50 seats reserved for women will be allocated based on party lists.
BNP leader Ruhul Kabir Rizvi issued a statement claiming a “sweeping victory,” urging supporters to offer prayers rather than take to the streets. “There will be no victory rally despite the BNP’s sweeping victory,” the statement said, calling for special prayers after Friday’s Jumma prayers nationwide.
Despite fears of unrest, polling day remained largely peaceful. Heavy security deployments were in place across the country, following warnings from UN experts about rising political tensions, threats and disinformation. Police records show five people were killed and more than 600 injured during the campaign period, but the Election Commission reported only “a few minor disruptions” on election day.
Outside BNP headquarters, party workers kept vigil through the night. “We will join the nation‑building effort led by Tarique Rahman,” said Md Fazlur Rahman, 45, who described years of political persecution and the loss of his factory.
As Bangladesh awaits the final results, the country stands on the brink of a political shift with far‑reaching implications for its future.
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