Jamaat-led alliance expresses confidence in sweeping victory, rivals caution against premature claims.
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February 12, 2026 — Dhaka : Bangladesh’s 13th general election concluded today with millions of citizens casting ballots in a contest marked by both festive participation and troubling reports of irregularities. Vote counting is now underway across the country under heightened security.
Polling began early with long queues forming at urban and rural stations. Election officials reported strong turnout throughout the day, driven in part by first-time voters and women. Security forces maintained a heavy presence in sensitive constituencies following pre-poll tensions and scattered clashes during the campaign.
Despite visible enthusiasm, opposition candidates and independent observers alleged irregularities at several polling centers. Complaints included intimidation of polling agents, forced entry by party workers, and instances where voters claimed ballots had already been cast in their names. In some locations, presiding officers briefly suspended voting after disputes broke out. Officials said re-polling could be considered if formal complaints are substantiated.
Authorities confirmed fatalities in election-day clashes between rival groups, with dozens more injured. Most incidents occurred in constituencies previously identified as politically volatile. Law enforcement agencies announced investigations and ordered additional patrols to prevent further escalation during the counting process.
Interim national leader Muhammad Yunus described the election as “the most peaceful and festive exercise the country has witnessed in years,” praising voter enthusiasm and the orderly conduct at most polling stations. He urged all parties to respect the final verdict once results are certified.
The Jamaat-led alliance expressed confidence in a sweeping victory, citing internal assessments and early counting trends. Rival blocs rejected these claims as premature, warning against attempts to “manufacture momentum” before official results are declared.
Counting centers are operating under tight security, with layered verification procedures in place. Preliminary trends are expected later tonight, while certified results will be released in phases. Authorities advised caution in several districts until the results cycle is complete.
For many citizens, the day carried both pride and anxiety — pride in participating in a defining democratic exercise, and anxiety over whether every vote will be counted fairly. As ballots are tallied, the nation awaits clarity after a campaign season marked by passion, polarization, and sacrifice.
