The much-anticipated 13th national parliamentary elections are underway today, drawing the attention of both domestic and international observers. This election is widely seen as pivotal, potentially ushering in a transfer of power and determining the composition of Bangladesh’s next government, including the next Prime Minister.
At the centre of attention stands Tareq Rahman, Chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), who is contesting from two constituencies: Dhaka-17 and Bogura-6. Following a 17-year period of exile, Tareq returned to Bangladesh on 25 December last year and quickly immersed himself in the electoral campaign, travelling across the country to meet voters and outline his vision for national development. His efforts have reportedly resonated strongly with the electorate, inspiring confidence within the BNP and energising supporters.
Despite the personal loss of his mother shortly after his return, Tareq demonstrated resilience, engaging in a nationwide campaign that emphasised governance reform, economic stability, and law and order restoration. Party officials express strong optimism, describing the campaign as a “peaceful electoral revolution.” Analysts suggest that in the post-Sheikh Hasina political landscape, Tareq Rahman and the BNP have consolidated a position of strength, potentially positioning him as the country’s next Prime Minister if the results are favourable.
In recent statements, Tareq stressed national unity over party interests: “Bangladesh comes first. In building a self-reliant nation, the welfare of the state and the people will take precedence over any political agenda.” Political observers, however, note that should BNP form the government, Tareq will face significant challenges, including political polarisation, economic pressures, and maintaining social stability.
Other notable developments include:
| Event | Details |
|---|---|
| Free Animal Clinic | Tareq inaugurated a free clinic at the Bangladesh Animal Welfare Association office in Banani, providing complimentary care for animals under BNP patronage. |
| Election Observation | A delegation of Turkish MPs met Tareq at his Gulshan office to discuss the ongoing elections. |
| Hospital Visit | Tareq visited senior BNP Joint Secretary Ruhul Kabir Rizvi at Square Hospital to check on his health. |
| Voting Plan | Tareq, his wife Dr. Zubaida Rahman, and daughter Barrister Zaima Rahman will vote at Model High School & College in Gulshan. |
BNP spokesperson and Tareq’s advisor Mahdi Amin highlighted the broad-based support the party has garnered, noting backing from people across religions, regions, and social strata. While allegations of vote-buying by rival groups have emerged, BNP insists that voters will exercise their judgment freely. The party anticipates winning approximately 250 seats if elections proceed in a free, fair, and transparent manner.
On the eve of voting, Tareq appeared notably cheerful, attending campaign events and public engagements with optimism. Observers suggest that his return, combined with sustained public outreach and strategic messaging, has reinvigorated BNP’s standing, making election day a closely watched event in Bangladesh’s political landscape.