Bangladesh votes tomorrow in a high-stakes parliamentary election. Results are likely on February 13. The Election Commission says it is ready. Security forces say arrangements are complete. This is the first general election since the 2024 uprising that ousted Sheikh Hasina from power and ended the Awami League's long rule.
After Sheikh Hasina's ouster, an interim government led by Muhammad Yunus took charge. Many hoped for cleaner politics and a stronger democracy. Now, over 12.77 crore voters will decide the future. Polling will be held in 299 of 300 seats. One seat was postponed after a candidate's death. Voters will also take part in a referendum on the July National Charter, a document that proposes major constitutional changes, ANI reported.
A call for a new beginning
In a televised speech, Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus urged citizens to treat polling day as the 'birthday of a new Bangladesh'. He said the country's future will be shaped by the people's vote, ANI reported.
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Tight security across the country
A total of 42,779 polling stations have been set up. Voting will run from 7:30 AM to 4:30 PM. More than 1.87 lakh security personnel have been deployed under a three-tier system. Police, mobile patrols, and rapid-response teams will guard the process. The Election Commission said the law and order situation is satisfactory, though some risks remain, according to ANI.
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High stakes and mixed emotions
The main fight is between the BNP and Jamaat-e-Islami alliance. Minority communities in some areas have voiced fear of post-poll violence, while others say they feel safe. International observers, including a large EU mission, have described the overall atmosphere as positive.
