‘Bangladesh will be better’: BNP victory puts nation at crossroads
Al Jazeera
February 14, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Bangladesh’s political landscape has shifted dramatically following a landslide victory by the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) in the parliamentary elections. The BNP, a center-right party, secured 212 out of 300 seats, marking its return to power after nearly two decades. This win comes amid widespread hope for renewed stability and democracy, led by Tarique Rahman, set to become the next prime minister. The election concluded largely peacefully, despite concerns from rival parties about potential irregularities.
The victory follows a period of significant political turmoil in Bangladesh. A nationwide protest movement in 2024 forced the previous government, led by Sheikh Hasina, into exile under a caretaker regime. The BNP’s triumph is seen as a rejection of this legacy and a mandate to address pressing issues like economic instability and rising inflation. Many citizens express optimism that the new government will prioritize job creation and alleviate financial pressures.
While the BNP celebrated in Dhaka, its former ally and rival, Jamaat-e-Islami, disputed the results but ultimately accepted defeat. Critics argue that organizational weaknesses and election campaign missteps contributed to their loss. The BNP’s strategic choice to avoid large-scale celebrations aimed at minimizing potential violence, reflecting a cautious approach to consolidating power.
This political shift has broader implications for Bangladesh’s
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Originally published on Al Jazeera on 2/14/2026