Why the BNP won Bangladesh’s post-uprising election
Al Jazeera
February 14, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The 13th parliamentary election in Bangladesh saw the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) secure a decisive victory, marking their return to power after years of political struggle under Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. While the election was often framed as a dramatic comeback, it was more a result of strategic navigation within the first-past-the-post electoral system and voter disillusionment with BNP's local leadership rather than a tidal wave of public support.
The contest was shaped by frustration with BNP's governance issues, such as corruption and extortion at grassroots levels. This led some voters to consider alternatives like the Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) bloc, which gained 77 seats, up from their previous best of 18 in 1991. However, JI's success was limited by structural constraints, including a lack of established candidates and missteps on key issues like women’s rights.
BNP's enduring strength lay in its robust organizational structure and deep-rooted local networks. Their reliance on experienced candidates with strong name recognition resonated particularly well in rural areas, where familiarity and access to resources are crucial factors for voters. This pragmatic approach allowed BNP to retain their base despite defections and voter frustration.
The election underscores the importance of party infrastructure and strategic candidate selection in first-past-the-post systems. While JI's surge reflected growing support for Islamic-oriented politics, BNP's ability to maintain its core constituency ensured their return to power. This outcome highlights the complex interplay of voter sentiment, electoral arithmetic, and party strategy in shaping political outcomes.
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Originally published on Al Jazeera on 2/14/2026