In a landmark election for Bangladesh, BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman has been unofficially declared elected in both Bogura‑6 and Dhaka‑17, securing commanding victories that underline his enduring political influence and the party’s commanding position in the 13th parliamentary polls. In Bogura‑6, Tarique amassed 216,284 votes, defeating his nearest rival, Jamaat-e-Islami candidate Abidur Rahman Sohel, by a margin of 118,658 votes. The constituency recorded a voter turnout of 69.10 per cent from a total of 454,043 registered voters. Early trends from Dhaka‑17 indicate a similarly decisive win, reflecting strong urban support for Tarique and the BNP alliance. The 2026 election has been hailed as a historic milestone, conducted peacefully for the first time in 35 years, with high voter turnout across both urban and rural constituencies. Party officials have expressed confidence that these victories will translate into a two-thirds majority in the Jatiya Sangsad, potentially enabling BNP to form the next government and implement its election manifesto. Election Commission sources confirmed that counting of postal and referendum ballots continues, but preliminary trends suggest Tarique’s dual-seat wins mirror broader gains for the BNP alliance nationwide. Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin described the polls as transparent, impartial, and credible, with no evidence of manipulation or irregularities. Analysts note that Tarique’s victories could set a precedent for high-profile leaders contesting multiple constituencies, while also underscoring the strategic importance of maintaining strongholds in both rural districts and the capital. Political observers have praised the electorate’s responsible participation, the restraint shown by candidates, and the professionalism of authorities, emphasising that the 2026 polls set a new benchmark for democratic transition in Bangladesh. Meanwhile, opposition parties, including Jamaat-e-Islami, have pledged to accept the results if trends continue, while smaller parties such as the National Citizen Party have raised isolated concerns over counting irregularities in urban centres. Tarique Rahman’s dual victories, alongside a historic violence-free election, symbolise a transformative moment in Bangladesh’s democratic journey — demonstrating the power of responsible voters, accountable candidates, and effective governance in safeguarding the nation’s aspirations.

Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin on Thursday said the referendum and 13th parliamentary election held on Thursday (February 12) could be considered very good by any standard in the history of the country’s elections. “If you judge it by any standard in the history of this country and its electoral history, it can be considered a very good election,” he said at a post-election briefing at 10:00pm on Thursday night at the city’s Nirbachan Bhaban. The CEC said his commission had successfully delivered to the nation a quite neutral and credible election in line with its commitment. “We have all been able to deliver to the nation the election with collective efforts. We are grateful to the Almighty. We believe that our efforts and works have been a success,” he said. Nasir Uddin said they had promised to present the nation a fully neutral and credible election amid a festive environment. “We believe that we’ve been able to do so,” he said. The referendum and the 13th parliamentary election were held on Thursday in a festive and peaceful atmosphere in 299 out of 300 constituencies across the country.

Jamaat-e-Islami will accept the voting results if they reflect the current trend of votes receoved by the party, says its Ameer Shafiqur Rahman. Speaking at a press conference in the Dhaka‑15 seat on Thursday evening, he noted that preliminary results were emerging but cautioned against premature conclusions. “It is not appropriate to say anything in advance. We have confidence in the people. There are indications in the initial results, but nothing can be confirmed yet,” he said. “The country’s interests are paramount to us. Based on the results received so far, we are leading in most places. We need to wait a little longer.” Voting began at 7:30am and continued peacefully until 4:30pm. Expressing gratitude to the people, the Jamaat chief said, “Many concerns were spread. No major irregularities occurred. When you live together in society, minor mistakes can happen.” Speaking about his rival candidate, Shafiqur said: “We met today as well. One of us will win. We will accept whoever wins. If elected, I will work together with everyone, taking the advice of all. If we form the government, we want all parties by our side. “We will maintain good relations with countries we already have good ties with. With an open mind, we will give others whatever they deserve, while also ensuring we get what we deserve.”