Bangladesh voted in a landmark general election, the first since massive Gen Z-led protests in 2024 forced former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to step down. The vote is being seen as a crucial moment in the country’s political history, marking a transition after months of unrest and uncertainty. Millions of citizens turned out across the country to cast their ballots, with a significant number of young and first-time voters playing a key role in shaping the outcome.
The protests that led to Hasina’s removal initially began as student demonstrations over public sector job quotas but soon grew into a nationwide movement demanding political reform and greater accountability. The unrest eventually resulted in her resignation and departure from office, leading to the formation of an interim administration tasked with restoring stability and conducting fresh elections.
In this election, the political landscape looks significantly different. The Awami League, long led by Hasina, is not contesting, shifting the focus to opposition forces, particularly the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP). BNP leaders have promised a new phase of democratic governance, transparency, and institutional reforms if elected. Other parties and alliances are also competing, reflecting a more open but complex political environment.
Security has been tightened nationwide to ensure peaceful polling, and both domestic and international observers are closely monitoring the process. The outcome of this election is expected to shape Bangladesh’s democratic trajectory and determine whether the country can move beyond political turmoil toward stability and inclusive governance.
