rki.news
Sources Xinhua

DHAKA, Feb. 12 — Voting in Bangladesh’s national parliamentary election concluded at 4:30 p.m. local time on Thursday, with ballot counting commencing immediately afterward, the Bangladesh Election Commission confirmed.
Polling began at 7:30 a.m. across more than 42,000 voting centers throughout the country. A total of 2,028 candidates contested 299 of the 300 directly elected parliamentary seats. Voting in the remaining constituency will be held at a later date following the death of a candidate.
According to local media reports, the election process was largely peaceful and orderly despite a few isolated incidents. Observers noted steady voter turnout in both urban and rural constituencies. Many citizens described a vibrant and hopeful atmosphere at polling stations.
Dhaka resident Abdur Rahman said the mood reminded him of the festive spirit witnessed during the 2008 elections. He expressed optimism that the vote would signal a fresh beginning for Bangladesh’s political stability and economic progress, adding that voters expect the winning party to honor its manifesto commitments.
This election is the first since former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned in August 2024 amid nationwide political turmoil, making the outcome particularly significant for the country’s future direction.
Under Bangladesh’s parliamentary framework, a political party must secure at least 151 seats to form the government and lead the next administration.