The result of Bangladesh’s parliamentary election surprised few observers who had followed the country’s turbulent politics over the past two years. However, the scale of the outcome still carried drama. The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has returned to power with a strong mandate, while Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami (Jamaat) has emerged as a major parliamentary force. The Awami League, once dominant under Sheikh Hasina, stood outside the contest, weighed down by public anger and political isolation. The election therefore opened a new phase in Bangladesh’s political life, even though it revived traditional actors rather than introducing a fresh order.

BNP’s victory came from organisation, networks and voter calculation rather than ideological enthusiasm. The party relied on its rural structures, long-standing patronage systems and familiar candidates who enjoy local influence. Many voters supported BNP because they believed it would form the government and, therefore, bring access to services and resources. Tarique Rahman’s leadership also mattered. His return from exile energised the party, restored discipline and helped it present itself as the main vehicle of change after the fall of Sheikh Hasina.

Nonetheless the victory raises difficult questions too. Tarique Rahman enters office with a controversial record, including corruption allegations and charges of benefiting from family influence during his mother Khaleda Zia’s rule. His promises to restore democratic institutions and rebuild governance will be judged against Bangladesh’s history, where parties have often adopted centralised power once in office. The youth who led the uprising that removed Hasina have made their expectations clear. They seek jobs, accountability and fair economic growth. They have also shown a readiness to mobilise again if the new government fails them.

The other striking outcome of the election is the rise of Jamaat-e-Islami. Jamaat secured a level of parliamentary representation unseen in decades. Its success indicates organised grassroots work, strong social networks and its ability to draw support from voters........

© Eurasia Review