DIVYA DELHI : The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) is set for a sweeping victory in Bangladesh’s parliamentary elections, the first since the deadly 2024 uprising that reshaped the country’s political landscape. According to latest trends, the Tarique Rahman-led BNP and its allies are leading in 212 of 299 seats, while the Jamaat-e-Islami-led alliance is ahead in 70 seats. Official results are expected from the Election Commission on Friday. Rahman, who won in both Bogra and Dhaka-17 constituencies, is poised to become the next Prime Minister. BNP Urges Restraint Despite claiming a two-thirds majority, BNP leaders called for postponing celebrations following the recent death of party matriarch Khaleda Zia. Senior leader Salahuddin Ahmed said the party now faces the challenge of building a discrimination-free nation. Allegations and Clashes Jamaat-e-Islami alleged voting irregularities in some areas, with candidate Khaleduz Zaman claiming ballot mishandling without polling agents present. While the Election Commission described polling day as largely peaceful, police reported five deaths and over 600 injuries during campaign-related clashes. Yunus Calls for Unity Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus, who has led the interim administration since Sheikh Hasina’s ouster in August 2024, urged unity and calm. His government barred the Awami League from contesting the election. Awami League Rejects Poll. The Awami League dismissed the vote as a “well-planned farce,” alleging voter intimidation, low turnout and widespread irregularities. The party claimed just 14.96% turnout within the first hours of voting and accused authorities of suppressing opposition participation.
