Will Bangladesh Prioritise Peace, Economic Revival and Security?

ALOK K. SHRIVASTAVA

Contrary to widespread apprehensions, the 13th Parliamentary elections in Bangladesh were held relatively peacefully on February 12 for 299 seats of the JatiyaSangsad, the country’s unicameral legislature. Elections were not conducted in one constituency due to the death of a candidate. The remaining 50 seats are to be filled through nomination.

Alongside the elections, voters expressed their views on the 84-point July 2025 Charter, which highlights four major reform areas, including limiting the Prime Minister’s tenure, constitutional amendments, enactment of new laws, expansion of fundamental rights and increased participation of women in the political process.

Voter turnout stood at 59.88 per cent — significantly lower than the 2008 and 2018 elections, which recorded 87 per cent and 80 per cent respectively. In 2014, 2024 and 2025, turnout was even lower at 40 per cent, 42 per cent and 50 per cent respectively.

The Bangladesh Election Commission indicated that the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) secured around 50 per cent of the votes, while Jamaat-e-Islami (JeI) received 31.7 per cent.

Demand for Recount

Concerns about alleged tampering and questions over the integrity of the electoral process have followed the results. The hardline outfit JeI has demanded a recount in 32 constituencies, alleging irregularities and deliberate alteration of results. The Election Commission has stated that the matter would be decided by the courts.

Accusations by Sheikh Hasina

Former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina termed the election a “farce”, alleging that the process was “well planned” and had begun the evening before polling day. She accused authorities of seizing polling centres, firing gunshots, buying votes, distributing money, stamping ballot papers and forcing agents to sign result sheets.

For the first time in three decades, the Awami League did not participate in the elections, having been barred from contesting following Sheikh Hasina’s conviction in “war crimes”, which reportedly led to 1,400 deaths and injuries to over 20,000 people.

Although Chief Adviser Mohammad Yunus described the elections as free, fair and inclusive — paving the way for a new Bangladesh — sections of the minority community expressed insecurity.

Plight of Minorities

According to the Bangladesh Hindu Buddhist Christian Unity Council, 15 members of minority communities were killed in the last 45 days, with 51 incidents reported since 2025. In one brutal incident, the body of a young Hindu tea garden worker was found in Kamalganj. Earlier, a 62-year-old Hindu trader was hacked to death inside his shop in Mymensingh. Such incidents reportedly led to lower voter participation among minorities, particularly Hindus.

The BNP, led by Tarique Rahman, won 212 seats, while JeI, led by Shafiqur Rahman, secured 77 seats — their highest-ever tally. The National Citizen Party (NCP), an offshoot of the July–August 2024 uprising under Nahid Islam, managed to win only six seats.

Announcements by Prime Minister-Designate

After confirming his victory from two constituencies, Tarique Rahman, poised to become Prime Minister, called for national unity. He urged supporters to refrain from organising rallies and meetings and instead offer prayers at mosques.

Rahman had left the country in 2008 following what he described as politically motivated persecution. He returned to Bangladesh recently after 15 years of self-imposed exile in Europe.

Swearing-in Ceremony: A Diplomatic Opportunity

The elected Members of Parliament were scheduled to take oath on February 17, while the swearing-in of the Prime Minister and Cabinet was still being finalised. The proposal to invite the Prime Ministers of India and Pakistan, along with other SAARC heads of state, is noteworthy. If it materialises, such a gathering would be only the second of its kind since Narendra Modi’s swearing-in in May 2014.

Revival of SAARC?

Tarique Rahman, the 60-year-old son of Khaleda Zia, has hinted at reviving SAARC and framing foreign policy in line with Bangladesh’s national interests. The new government inherits a fragile economy and a deteriorating law-and-order situation, despite an internationally reputed economist having led the caretaker administration for nearly two years. Constitutional and statutory institutions also require strengthening.

High inflation, rising prices, unemployment, challenges in the garment sector and water-sharing disputes with India demand urgent attention.

Foreign Affairs

Bangladesh’s 4,000-kilometre international border presents strategic concerns. Chinese involvement through the Belt and Road Initiative, supply of JF-17 fighter jets and the establishment of a drone production unit near the Siliguri corridor increased during the caretaker government. The new administration may review these engagements.

Regarding India–Bangladesh relations, the presence of Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla at the swearing-in may not suffice diplomatically. However, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s invitation to Tarique Rahman for a visit to India at a mutually convenient date could prove significant. Rahman has indicated that he will prioritise domestic stabilisation before undertaking major international engagements.

Farewell Address of Mohammad Yunus

In his 25-minute farewell address, Mohammad Yunus stated that Bangladesh would no longer pursue a submissive foreign policy or remain dependent on the advice of other nations — an apparent reference to India. While acknowledging the potential for Bangladesh to contribute to economic prosperity in India’s North-East, he did not address concerns over anti-India rhetoric, rising extremism and continued attacks on minorities, particularly Hindus. These issues may remain contentious for some time.