Bangladesh Holds First Parliamentary Elections Since Ousting of Hasina Regime

Dhaka. Bangladesh is holding its first parliamentary elections since the ousting of Sheikh Hasina's government following the Gen Z-led uprising in 2024. This election, held after years of political instability, is viewed as a significant test for the country's democracy.

Voting, which began late Thursday morning, proceeded with enthusiastic participation in polling centers in the capital Dhaka and other cities until midday. Voting will continue throughout Thursday, with results expected to be announced on Friday.

Approximately 127 million voters are eligible to participate in these elections, the first since former Prime Minister Hasina left the country and her Awami League party was banned. Hasina is currently living in exile in India.

Tarique Rahman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has emerged as the leading contender to form the next government. He is the son of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia and returned home last December after 17 years in self-exile in London. He has pledged to rebuild democratic institutions, strengthen the rule of law, and revitalize the struggling economy.

The main challenge to him comes from an 11-party alliance led by Jamaat-e-Islami. This Islamist party, banned during Hasina's rule, has recently gained influence. This has particularly raised concerns among women and religious minority communities.

Bangladesh is home to approximately 90% Muslims and nearly 8% Hindus. Jamaat chief Shafiqur Rahman stated after casting his vote that "this is a decisive moment" and that the people desire change.

The interim government, led by Nobel Peace Prize laureate Muhammad Yunus, has pledged to ensure a fair and transparent election. It is reported that around 500 international observers and foreign journalists are present, including representatives from the European Union (EU) and the Commonwealth.

Out of the 350-member parliament, 300 members will be directly elected, while 50 seats are reserved for women. Members will be selected based on a plurality system, and the parliamentary term will be five years. The Election Commission announced that voting has been postponed in one constituency following the death of a candidate.

These elections are taking place after years marked by violence, attacks on minorities and the press, and a weakening of the rule of law. Since gaining independence from Pakistan in 1971, Bangladesh's politics have been plagued by partisan conflict, military coups, and allegations of vote rigging. Around 5 million first-time voters are expected to be decisive this time.

Ikram Ul Haque, a 28-year-old voter, described the experience of casting his vote freely for the first time. "We are celebrating the election as a festival," he said. "I hope for a big change in Bangladesh."

Along with the election, a referendum is being held on constitutional reforms proposed under the National Charter. If supported by a majority, the new parliament will form a Constitutional Reform Council within 180 working days. The proposal includes establishing a bicameral legislature and granting the upper house the authority to amend the constitution.

The BNP and Jamaat-e-Islami have agreed to the document after some amendments. However, the referendum is also facing criticism because the Awami League and some of its former allies have been excluded from the process. This election is expected to determine the direction of Bangladesh's democratic future.