United News of Bangladesh

Video footage captured by closed-circuit cameras at the polling stations of the recent general election and referendum would be preserved at the offices of assistant returning officers. The Election Commission has taken the decision to preserve the video footage of two days – the day before the voting and the voting day— with a view to using these as documents. The Commission on Thursday issued the directives to the 69 returning officers -– two divisional commissioners (Dhaka and Chattogram), three regional election officers (Dhaka, Chattogram and Khulna) and 64 Districts’ deputy commissioners—to store the video footage. The EC in a letter signed by EC Deputy Secretary Mohammad Monir Hossain asked the returning officers to preserve the video footage at the office of the assistant returning officers concerned. The 13th parliamentary election and referendum were held at 42,659 polling stations in 299 out of 300 constituencies across the country on February 12 last. Some 90 percent of the polling stations were under CC camera surveillance. Bangladesh election credible, genuinely competitive: EU Chief Observer On February 13 last, the EC published a gazette of 297 elected MP candidates. The election results of two other constituencies – Chattogram-2 and 4-- were withheld as per the court orders. Besides, the election to Sherpur-3 was earlier cancelled following the death of a contesting candidate. In the election, Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) secured 209 parliamentary seats, while Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami won 68. Besides, National Citizen Party-NCP settled victory in six constituencies, independent candidates in seven constituencies, Bangladesh Khelafat Majlish in two, Islami Andolan Bangladesh in one, Bangladesh Jatiya Party-BJP (led by Andaleeve Rahman Partho) in one, Ganaodhikar Parishad in one, Ganasamhati Andolan in one and Khelafat Majlish in one parliamentary seat. So, the BNP-led electoral alliance sealed victory in a total of 212 constituencies, while the Jamaat-led electoral alliance won in 77 constituencies.

Two candidates of Islami Andolan Bangladesh lost their deposits in Chuadanga. According to unofficial results released by the Election Commission, the party candidates in Chuadanga-1 and Chuadanga-2 failed to secure 12.5 percent of valid votes, the threshold to keep their deposits, said Chuadanga district election officer Ahmad Ali In Chuadanga-1, Zahurul Islam Azizi, the candidate of Islami Andolan with the hand fan symbol, received 10,122 votes and could not reach the required limit. In Chuadanga-2, Hasanuzzaman Sojib, also with the hand-fan symbol, received 6,374 votes and lost his deposit. Jamaat wins three Kushtia seats as 17 candidates lose deposits According to local party leaders, expected results were affected by voting conditions and other obstacles. They expressed determination to strengthen organisational work and recover in future elections.

Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr Shafiqur Rahman on Saturday said the party recognises the overall outcome of the 13th parliamentary election and respects the rule of law, pledging to serve as a vigilant, principled and peaceful opposition. In a statement posted on his verified Facebook account, the Jamaat chief expressed gratitude to party volunteers and supporters for their tireless efforts during the election period. He acknowledged that many activists felt hurt and disappointed by the results but said their efforts were not in vain. Shafiqur Rahman said securing 77 seats has significantly increased Jamaat’s parliamentary presence, calling it a strong foundation rather than a setback. Drawing on political history, he said electoral fortunes can change over time, citing the long political journey that parties often undertake before returning to power. What perks do Bangladesh MPs enjoy? The Jamaat chief stressed that democratic politics requires patience, public trust and responsible preparation for the future. Shafiqur Rahman said the party remains committed to strengthening democratic culture, safeguarding citizens’ rights and promoting a just and accountable state. He reiterated Jamaat’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and contributing constructively to national progress while holding the government accountable. Shafiqur Rahman also alleged that some party workers faced intimidation and harassment during the campaign but praised their courage and dedication to democratic participation. “Our movement has never been about a single election,” he said, adding that Jamaat will continue pursuing principled and peaceful politics in the days ahead.

President Mohammad Sahabuddin will administer the oath to new cabinet members in accordance with the Constitution, Cabinet Secretary Sheikh Abdur Rashid said on Saturday. Preparations are underway at the Cabinet Division for the swearing-in ceremony, the Cabinet Secretary told reporters at the Bangladesh Secretariat. Abdur Rashid also said around 1,000 guests are expected to be invited to the ceremony. Gazettes of newly elected MPs, referendum results published Asked about the number of cabinet members, he said, “That depends on the person who will be the Leader of the House, the Prime Minister. It’s up to them how many ministers they want now or later.” Responding to a question about the possible date of the swearing-in ceremony he said, “We cannot confirm the date yet. Once we receive instructions or indications about the date and time, we will proceed accordingly. If it’s tomorrow, we will prepare for tomorrow (Sunday). If it’s two days later, we will prepare for that day. Only then can we provide the exact date.”

Chairperson of the Commonwealth Observer Group Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo on Saturday described Bangladesh’s 13th parliamentary election as ‘acceptable, transparent, peaceful and orderly’. He commended the peaceful conduct of Bangladesh’s parliamentary elections and the July Charter referendum, while highlighting areas where further progress on ‘inclusion and accessibility’ could strengthen the democratic process. “The people of Bangladesh have exercised their democratic rights to seek the fulfillment of their aspirations. We encourage them to be magnanimous and united in their shared democratic future,” said the former President of Ghana while presenting the Group’s interim statement on Thursday’s national election and referendum at a city hotel. Looking ahead to the next election cycle, he encouraged the Bangladesh Election Commission to conduct a post-election review, including of all observer recommendations, as is consistent with good practice. The final report, which will set out the full findings on the process and recommendations in greater detail, will be submitted to the Commonwealth Secretary-General, Shirley Botchwey, and thereafter shared with the government of Bangladesh, the Election Commission, political parties, and Commonwealth governments and then made public. The Chairperson acknowledged the context in which the elections were conducted, including the significant political developments following the July Uprising of 2024, as well as decisions affecting the participation of some political parties.  While the Group noted isolated reports of post-election tensions, it encouraged all stakeholders to continue to promote calm and peaceful conduct during the post-election period, and to resolve any disputes through the relevant legal channels. The Observer Group praised the vibrant media coverage, noting its important role in informing citizens and encouraging political debate. At the same time, it raised concerns about online misinformation, cyber harassment and hate speech, which continue to affect public discourse. The participation of women and youths emerged as areas requiring greater attention. Women accounted for only 4 per cent of candidates, with seven elected, while youth activism did not always translate into formal influence within political party structures, he said.  According to the Group’s statement, despite isolated pre- and post-election tensions, polling officials, security personnel and election agents generally carried out their duties with professionalism.  The Group also noted that officials assisted elderly voters and persons with disabilities. However, many polling stations remained inaccessible, particularly on upper floors, and lacked provisions for other forms of disability. On the referendum, the Group said it recognises the Charter as a response to multiple and urgent demands for reform. “At the same time, some stakeholders expressed concerns as to whether the referendum process was sufficiently consultative and clearly communicated.” The Group encouraged all stakeholders to maintain calm during the post-election period and consider the recommendations that will be outlined in its forthcoming final report. The Commonwealth Observer Group is an independent body that will make recommendations to the Commonwealth Secretary-General. It was constituted by the Commonwealth Secretary-General. Twelve experts, drawn from the fields of politics, law, media, gender, and election administration from several Commonwealth regions, were part of the group. UN encourages political stakeholders to strengthen national unity in Bangladesh The Commonwealth admitted Bangladesh as its 34th member on 18 April 1972, after its independence in December 1971. This is the fourth time that a Commonwealth Observer Group has been deployed.

Chief Observer of the European Union Election Observation Mission (EU EOM) to Bangladesh Ivars Ijabs on Saturday described the national election as ‘credible, hugely and genuinely competitive and pluralistic’ but observed that there was lack of proper women's representation. “Parliamentary elections were credible and competently managed, marking a pivotal step towards restoring democratic governance and rule of law,” he told reporters at a city hotel. Ijabs noted that for the first time since 2008, elections were genuinely competitive, conducted under a renewed legal framework that largely accords with international standards and with fundamental freedom broadly respected. He, however, said sporadic, localised political violence and persistent fear of mob attacks, often triggered by manipulated online narratives, harmed the democratic process.    Regarding the voter turnout, Ijabs said this is historically higher and lower and noted that it is shrinking everywhere and it is something concerning for all democracies. He said the limited political space afforded to women undermined their equal participation but the EC worked independently and transparently, maintaining the confidence of stakeholders and upholding the integrity of the polls. “Women candidates were, regrettably, almost absent from these elections,” Ijabs said, noting that only four percent of the contestants were women, with BNP fielding 10 and NCP two candidates, while Jamaat and 30 other parties did not have any, evidencing a ‘clear lack of political will’ to advance women in national politics.    He also highlighted the vital role of citizen observers, fact-checkers, as well as youth and women activists in rebuilding public trust in elections, enhancing transparency, and helping voters to make informed choices. The EU EOM observers noted that the election day was orderly, festive, and calm, while dedicated poll workers managed the opening, voting, and counting efficiently. EU Chief Observer calls twin polls a big day for Bangladesh democracy The presence of party agents at all stages of the process enhanced integrity, while regular updates on results tabulation at the local level by returning officers and by legacy media helped to maintain public confidence. Independent participation of persons with disabilities was not always ensured. The absence of affirmative action measures still leaves indigenous communities and minorities underrepresented in the political arena. "It is time to abandon the old practices that no longer reflect the growing maturity of Bangladesh's democracy and to chart a new course promoting independent institutions, human rights and accountability," said Ijabs. Head of the European Parliament Delegation Tomas Zdechovsky said the country is now entering a new crucial phase. “We urge the new parliament and government, backed by all other state institutions, to implement the approved reforms.” The EU EOM has been present in Bangladesh since the end of 2025 and on election day with 223 international observers, drawn from all EU Member States, as well as Canada, Norway and Switzerland, deployed across all 64 administrative districts. The mission will continue to observe the post-election environment and will publish a final report, including recommendations for improving future elections, in the coming months.

A man was killed and 12 others injured in post-election violence in Char Abdullah village in  Munshiganj Sadar  on Friday. The deceased Jashim Uddin, 30, was a supporter of independent candidate Mohammad Mohiuddin, who contested the election with the football symbol after being denied the BNP nomination he so craved, and was later expelled from the party. Jashim was beaten to death by supporters of the winning BNP candidate  Kamruzzaman Ratan, along with his father Mafik Nayeb and elder brother Moshiur Nayeb, who were also injured. The injured were seriously hurt and taken to different hospitals. Jasim was taken to Dhaka Medical College Hospital and died while receiving treatment. According to Moshiur Nayeb, the attack was led by Shakil Dewan, senior joint convener of the local Swechhasebak Dal supporting the local BNP or “sheaf of paddy” candidate. He said the family was attacked at home around 3pm, despite having no prior disputes. According to police, a group of 50–60 people entered Jashim’s house and beat him and his family members. Shakil Dewan denied involvement, claiming that Jashim and his supporters had attacked local “sheaf of paddy”(BNP) supporters earlier. “Later, I went to the police station to file a complaint about the incident. At that time, Jashim and his people were preparing to launch another attack as they were leaving the area. Then local people gathered and beat Jashim and his associates. I was not present at the scene,” he added. Mominul Islam, officer-in-charge of Munshiganj Sadar Police Station, said, “The incident was linked to a local dispute and election rivalry. Police are conducting raids to arrest the perpetrators.” Several crude bombs blast near Munshiganj polling centre, 5 held In other incidents in Munshiganj Sadar, 10 more people were injured in post-election clashes. In Munshiganj-3 constituency, Mohammad Kamruzzaman Ratan, central social welfare secretary of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party, won the seat contesting with the “sheaf of paddy” symbol.

At least 20 candidates, including a former state minister and a former MP, are set to lose their election deposits in the 13th national election across six constituencies of Naogaon. A total of 32 candidates contested the six seats. An analysis of results announced by the returning officer shows that 20 candidates failed to secure the required votes to claim their deposits. According to election law, a candidate must secure at least one eighth of the total valid votes to retain the deposit. None of the 20 candidates reached that threshold. In Naogaon-1, Akbar Ali, Md Abul Haq Shah and three time former MP Dr. Salek Chowdhury failed to secure the minimum votes. In Naogaon 2, Motibul Islam of the AB Party did not reach the required mark. In Naogaon 3, six candidates are set to lose their deposits as they did not secure one eighth of the valid votes. In Naogaon 4, four others fell short of the legal threshold to retain the deposits. Four election officials withdrawn in Mymensingh, Naogaon over irregularities In Naogaon 5, three candidates failed to secure enough votes to save their deposits. In Naogaon 6, three candidates, including former state minister Alamgir Kabir, will lose their deposits for failing to reach the required vote share.

The voter turnout in the national election stood at 59.44 percent, the Election Commission (EC) said on Friday. The information was shared around 11:30am by the Director of Public Relations wing of the Election Commission Md Ruhul Amin Mallik. On Thursday night, the commission explained that since postal ballots were added in most constituencies, there was a possibility of error in providing immediate statistics. The commission said it decided to disclose the turnout rate only after completing the counting process to ensure accuracy.

The Election Commission has decided to withhold the results of three constituencies as court cases are pending against the declared winning candidates. The constituencies are Sherpur-2, Chattogram-2 and Chattogram-4. The EC issued three separate letters in this regard on Thursday. The EC said the results are being withheld as cases are pending before the court against the winning candidates in these constituencies. The election results will remain suspended until the disposal of the cases, it said. The winning candidates are Aslam Chowdhury (Chattogram-4), Sarwar Alamgir(Chattogram -2) and Mohammad Fahim Chowdhury(Sherpur-2).