Bangladesh Nationalist Party Wins Parliamentary Election, Set to Form New Government

On February 12, 2026, Bangladesh held elections for the 12th National Assembly. According to local television tallies, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), led by former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, secured a majority of parliamentary seats, crossing the threshold required to form a new government. BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman, who won both constituencies he contested, is expected to assume the role of Prime Minister.

This marks the first general election since former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina was ousted in 2024 and went into self-imposed exile. Muhammad Yunus, head of the interim government, characterized the vote as "not just another routine election." A national referendum on implementing the "July Charter" aimed at institutional reforms was held concurrently. International observers offered positive assessments of the electoral process, expressing confidence that the outcome will help restore political stability in Bangladesh.