Bangladesh Votes for Change: BNP Sweeps Polls, Tarique Rahman Set to Be PM
Dhaka: Bangladesh appears headed for a political transition as unofficial results from the country’s closely watched parliamentary elections indicate a commanding lead for the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), positioning its chief Tarique Rahman to assume office as prime minister as early as Saturday.
Votes are still being counted following Thursday’s nationwide polling, and the Election Commission is expected to release formal results later on Friday. However, trends emerging from constituency tallies show the BNP comfortably crossing the majority mark in the 299-seat Jatiya Sangsad, prompting party leaders to declare a decisive mandate.
The election — the first since the mass youth-led uprising that ended Sheikh Hasina’s long tenure — has been framed by the BNP as a public endorsement of political change. Party officials described the outcome as a sweeping victory and said preparations were underway for government formation once results are officially certified.
BNP declares landslide victory in Bangladesh Polls
BNP has won 209 seats in the 300-member House.
Tariq Rahman is set to become the next Prime Minister once results are officially confirmed.@Journo_Rajesh & @RishabhMPratap share more details with @aakaaanksha. pic.twitter.com/y1YCTF0JMp
— TIMES NOW (@TimesNow) February 13, 2026
Rahman poised to lead new government
Tarique Rahman, widely seen as the face of the BNP’s campaign, has secured clear leads in the seats he contested, reinforcing expectations that he will head the next administration. The son of former president Ziaur Rahman and former prime minister Khaleda Zia, Rahman’s rise marks a dramatic political comeback and signals the return of his party to power after years on the sidelines.
With the parliamentary majority threshold already crossed in provisional counts, the BNP is positioned to form government without coalition dependence — a development that could shape policy direction and governance priorities in the months ahead.
High turnout signals voter engagement
Election officials reported robust voter participation across much of the country, reflecting heightened public interest in a vote widely viewed as a defining moment in Bangladesh’s political reset. Observers say the strong turnout underscores the electorate’s desire for stability after a prolonged period of unrest and transition.
VIDEO | Dhaka: BNP leader Tarique Rahman leaves his residence to offer prayer at Gulshan mosque.
Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) on Friday claimed victory in the crucial general elections, marred by sporadic incidents of violence, to elect a new government to replace the… pic.twitter.com/URMf3SO5CT
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) February 13, 2026
Regional response begins
Diplomatic reactions have begun to surface even before the final declaration. India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended congratulations to the BNP leadership and Tarique Rahman, expressing hope for continued cooperation and reaffirming New Delhi’s support for a democratic Bangladesh.
Awaiting official confirmation
Despite the clear momentum in favour of the BNP, the outcome remains provisional until the Election Commission issues its formal notification. If current trends hold, the country is set for a swift transfer of power, with Rahman expected to take oath shortly after certification — ushering in a new chapter in Bangladesh’s political landscape.
