United News of Bangladesh

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.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on Friday warned that the rules-based global order has effectively collapsed, cautioning that Europe can no longer take its freedom and security for granted amid rising great-power politics. Opening the annual Munich Security Conference, Merz told world leaders that the international system “no longer exists in that form,” urging Europeans to be ready to make sacrifices to defend their values and security. He acknowledged that a “deep divide” has emerged between Europe and the United States, saying transatlantic relations have been strained by ideological and policy differences in recent years. The conference is taking place against a backdrop of heightened tensions, including US President Donald Trump’s renewed threats to annex Greenland from Denmark and the imposition of tariffs on European imports, developments that have unsettled European allies. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who is attending the conference and is scheduled to speak later, earlier described the current moment as a “new era in geopolitics,” calling for a reassessment of global roles and responsibilities. Around 50 world leaders are attending the summit, where European defence, the future of the transatlantic relationship and the credibility of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization are high on the agenda. US commitments to Nato have come under scrutiny amid shifting American foreign policy priorities. Merz said Europe does not share the “culture war” politics associated with the US MAGA movement, stressing that freedom of speech in Europe is bound by constitutional values and human dignity. He also rejected protectionism, reaffirming Europe’s commitment to free trade. Despite the tensions, Merz appealed for renewed cooperation, urging Washington to help “repair and revive transatlantic trust.” He also revealed that confidential discussions are underway with French President Emmanuel Macron on the possibility of a joint European nuclear deterrent, though he did not provide details. France and the UK are currently Europe’s only nuclear powers, while most European states, including Germany, rely on the US nuclear umbrella under Nato. Addressing the conference later, Macron reiterated his call for Europe to become a geopolitical power, urging faster and more coordinated rearmament across the continent in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. He described the war as Europe’s “existential challenge” and warned against yielding to Russian demands. The Russia-Ukraine war, tensions between the West and China, and prospects of a renewed Iran-US nuclear deal are also being discussed at the high-profile gathering.   With inputs from BBC

A nine-year-old boy was beaten to death over allegations of stealing betel nuts in Haluaghat in Mymensingh on Friday afternoon. The victim, Imon Mia, was the son of Dulal Mia of Bausha village in Swadeshi Union. According to police and local sources, Imon had allegedly stolen betel nuts from his neighbor Atahar Ali’s tree about a month ago. After keeping silent for nearly a month, Atahar Ali on Friday called Imon to his house, locked the door, and beat him severely. Imon’s family rescued him and took him to Haluaghat Upazila Health Complex, where doctors declared him dead. Police recovered the body and are preparing for post-mortem examination. Four election officials withdrawn in Mymensingh, Naogaon over irregularities Md Ferdous Alam, officer-in-charge of Haluaghat Police Station, said preliminary investigation shows the killing was linked to the betel nut theft. “The matter is being investigated seriously,” he added.

Pakistan Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Friday congratulated Tarique Rahman, chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party, on his party’s historic win in Bangladesh’s 13th national elections. The Prime Minister conveyed his felicitations on behalf of the people and the Government of Pakistan, and also congratulated the people of Bangladesh for the successful conduct of the elections, which he said reflected the democratic values of the country. During a telephone conversation, the leaders recalled the historic and brotherly ties between Pakistan and Bangladesh, and discussed the need to strengthen bilateral cooperation in areas of mutual interest, while respecting each country’s sovereignty. Modi talks to Tarique over phone, reaffirms India's support Both leaders also paid tribute to former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia for her role in promoting Bangladesh-Pakistan relations and bringing the people of the two countries closer. Shehbaz Sharif invited Tarique Rahman to visit Pakistan at his earliest convenience. The invitation was welcomed by Tarique Rahman, and both leaders agreed to stay in close contact to further the interests of their peoples.

Mobile Financial Services (MFS) such as bKash, Nagad, and Rocket, along with internet banking platforms, have resumed full operations across Bangladesh starting on Friday. The lifting of restrictions follows 96 hours of limited service aimed at preventing the misuse of funds during the 13th National Parliamentary Election. According to sources at Bangladesh Bank, the temporary limitations were officially withdrawn after midnight on Thursday (February 12). From Friday morning, users have been able to perform transactions without the emergency caps. To maintain the integrity of the national polls, the central bank had implemented strict controls from 12 AM on February 9 until 11:59 PM on February 12. Key restrictions during this period included: - Transaction Limits: Individual peer-to-peer (P2P) transfers were capped at a maximum of Tk1,000 per transaction. Frequency Caps: Users were limited to a maximum of 10 transactions per day. Bangladesh Polls: BB imposes 96-hour freeze on NPSB internet banking Internet Banking: P2P fund transfers via banking apps and internet portals were largely suspended for the duration. The central bank's directive was part of a broader effort to curb illegal financial influence on voters. With the election period concluding, financial institutions have been instructed to monitor for any abnormal transaction patterns as services return to their standard high-volume limits.  

Riding on a landslide victory in the national election, BNP has initiated preparations to form the new cabinet, setting the stage for the party’s return to power after more than 19 years out of government. Talking to UNB, several party leaders close to its Chairman Tarique Rahman said the upcoming cabinet is initially expected to be a 'small but effective' team, combining experienced leaders and youths. Ministers will be chosen based on three main criteria—integrity, administrative ability and their contributions to the party’s movements. They said Tarique Rahman, who is set to take oath as Prime Minister for the first time, is personally overseeing the selection process. A BNP leader said the Cabinet Secretary on Friday phoned BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir to discuss arrangements for the oath-taking of the MP-elects, which may be held either on Sunday or Monday. Personal secretary to BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman ABM Abdus Sattar has been assigned to coordinate with the government and the Cabinet Secretary regarding the swearing-in of MPs and ministers. After the MP-elects take oath, the BNP parliamentary party will elect Tarique as Leader of the House and complete other necessary formalities. The issue of cabinet formation will come to the fore after the MPs are sworn in. According to unofficial results, the BNP-led alliance won 213 out of 299 seats, while the alliance led by Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami secured 76 seats and will serve as the opposition. Party sources said the cabinet will be structured to ensure efficiency and accountability. Discussions are going on to assign important ministries to senior party leaders. In line with the BNP’s commitments, parties that took part in past movements and struggles will also be involved in running the government.  Among the alliance leaders who won the election, some will be given places in the cabinet.  There is also a possibility that several members from both the party and the alliance will be included under the technocrat quota to ensure representation of the partner parties. Among the key names under discussions, BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir is expected to receive an important ministry, though there is also discussion about him taking on the presidency. Standing Committee members Dr Khondkar Mosharraf Hossain and Nazrul Islam Khan are also being considered for the presidency. If he is not considered for the presidency, Nazrul Islam Khan, who did not contest the election, may be appointed as a technocrat minister. There is also discussion that one of the members from the Standing Committee may be appointed Speaker of Parliament. Other Standing Committee members likely to receive key ministries include Mirza Abbas, Gayeshwar Chandra Roy, Dr Abdul Moyeen Khan, Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury, Salahuddin Uddin Ahmed, Iqbal Hasan Mahmud Tuku and AZM Zahid Hossain. BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi, who did not contest the elections, may be appointed as a technocrat minister in the Ministry of Information or another important ministry. Alliance leaders under consideration for cabinet posts include Andaleeb Rahman Partha, Zunaid Saki and Nurul Haque Nur. Newly joined BNP leaders who won under the ‘Dhanner Shish’ symbol, including Bobby Hajjaj and Dr Reza Kibria, are also being considered. Among elected BNP leaders likely to be included in the cabinet are Abdul Awal Mintu, Shah Mofazzal Hossain Kaykobad, Advocate Zainal Abedin, Md Fazlur Rahman, Asadul Habib Dulu, Zahid Uddin Swapan, Khondkar Abdul Mukhtadir, Tahsina Rushdi Luna, Afroza Khanum Rita, Khairul Kabir Khokon, Shahiduddin Chowdhury Annie, Md Shariful Alam, Rashiduzzaman Millat, Barrister Kaiser Kamal, Abdul Wadud Bhuiya, Dipen Dewan, Shama Obaed, Shahidul Islam Babul, Mia Nuruddin Apu, Rokibul Islam Bakul, Sultan Salauddin Tuku, Khaled Hossain Mahbub Shyamol, former Attorney General Md Asaduzzaman, Anindya Islam Amit, Mir Helal, SM Jahangir and Eline Bhutto. Other possible technocrat appointments include Joint Secretary Generals Habib Un Nabi Khan Sohel, Humayun Kabir and Dhaka North Convener Aminul Haq. Party sources said BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman does not want to include any controversial figures in the cabinet.  They said ministerial appointments will be decided after reviewing everyone’s past records, and some new faces outside the usual leadership may also be given posts. According to party sources, the new government will announce a 100-day plan immediately after taking office. Law and order will be the top priority, alongside tackling corruption and reviving the economy.  The party’s election manifesto promised economic reforms, controlling inflation, creating jobs, improving education and healthcare, and adopting a zero-tolerance approach to corruption. BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir said the government will work to fulfill people’s expectations following their mandate. “The biggest challenges for the next government will be getting the economy moving, maintaining law and order, curbing corruption and ensuring justice,” he said. Fakhrul said BNP, having won a majority of seats in the 13th parliamentary election, will form the next government under the leadership of party Chairman Tarique Rahman. Standing Committee member Salahuddin Ahmed said the BNP government aims to build a merit- and technology-based state, reform the Constitution in line with the party’s election manifesto and the ‘31-point plan’, and uphold political agreements such as the July National Charter. He also said this parliament is expected to be the most legislatively active since independence. Salahuddin also said the new government’s three main priorities will be establishing the rule of law, achieving economic prosperity and eradicating corruption.  

BNP Standing Committee Member and newly elected MP from Narsingdi-2 Palash constituency, Dr. Abdul Moyeen Khan, on Friday pledged to fulfil the responsibilities entrusted to his party by the people over the next five years. Speaking to journalists after visiting his parents’ graves in his native Charnagardi village of Palash upazila before Friday prayers, he said the people of Bangladesh had exercised their right to vote correctly, choosing those who have consistently worked for the welfare and development of the country. “The people have given the responsibility of running the country to BNP, recognising the party’s past contributions to national development,” he said. Dr. Moyeen Khan added that under the leadership of BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman, the party would steer the country towards development and establish Bangladesh in a respectable position globally. “We do politics for the people, not for power. Thursday’s election proved that the people of Bangladesh love BNP,” he said. He later congratulated party leaders and activists on their victory and pledged to work for the development of Palash. Dr. Moyeen Khan secured 92,352 votes, while his nearest rival, Amjad Hossain of Daripalla, received 55,161 votes. Jamaat alliance candidate Md. Golam Sarwar Tushar, contesting under the Shapla Koli symbol, received 19,236 votes.

A BNP leader on Friday has opened a closed party office of the Bangladesh Awami League in Panchagarh, triggering controversy within his own party. The office was opened in the morning at Chaklahat Union in Panchagarh Sadar upazila by Abu Daud Pradhan, president of the Sadar upazila unit of BNP. A video of the incident later went viral on social media. It showed Abu Daud Pradhan standing on the veranda of the Awami League office and giving a speech. According to local sources, Abu Daud Pradhan is a former chairman of Chaklahat Union Parishad. In his speech, Abu Daud Pradhan said he was unaware that the Awami League party office had remained locked and claimed he would have opened it earlier had he known. He also said the recent election victory came after 18 years and described it as a mandate given by forces from both sides of the Liberation War, adding that the party had received a record number of votes across Bangladesh. He said every party has some wrongdoers and that there are clear instructions to expel such elements. Stressing law and order, he urged leaders and activists of both parties to ensure that peace and stability are not disrupted in Panchagarh. Referring to local results, he expressed disappointment that the BNP’s ‘sheaf of paddy’ symbol failed to secure first position in any polling centre of his own union. Addressing Awami League supporters, he said they are citizens of an independent and sovereign Bangladesh and urged them not to engage in any wrongdoing. He said no offender would be spared, regardless of party affiliation, and asked them to inform him if they faced any harassment. He referred to cases against Awami League leaders and activists, saying that regardless of their nature, the party’s leader would soon go to Parliament to take oath and, he hoped, become prime minister, after which the situation would be clear. Freedom fighter Abul Hossain said the office had earlier been locked by Jamaat supporters. He added that the office was opened with local people present and would temporarily be used by freedom fighters, not for Awami League political activities. Speaking on the matter, Abu Daud Pradhan said the move was not a party decision. He said the Awami League office was opened only to prevent tension in the area and maintain peace, adding that the office had earlier been locked by Jamaat supporters. District BNP Convener Md Jahirul Islam Kacchu said there was no decision from the district or central BNP regarding opening the Awami League office. Awami League was right fit for Jamaat : Mirza Abbas He said the upazila BNP president would have to bear responsibility for his action and that the matter would be discussed with the central leadership. He also said opening the banned Awami League office immediately after the election victory was not a good move and that organisational action would be taken against Abu Daud Pradhan following an investigation for breaching party discipline.

A fire that broke out at a jhut godown in the Ambagh area under Konabari area of Gazipur on Friday night was brought under control about one and a half hours later. Md. Mamun, assistant director of Gazipur Fire Service, said the blaze started around 7:30pm. Five firefighting units were deployed to the scene to control the fire and was brought under control about one and a half hours later. 18 injured in gas balloon blast during electioneering in Gazipur The cause of the fire has not yet been determined. Authorities are set to assess the full extent of the damage  

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim on Friday congratulated BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman and said Malaysia looks forward to working with the new Bangladeshi leadership to bring new energy to Dhaka-Kuala Lumpur bilateral ties. "I warmly congratulate Tarique Rahman and the Bangladesh Nationalist Party on their emphatic election victory. This is a triumph of democracy: the Bangladeshi people, having navigated a period of extraordinary challenges, have spoken clearly at the ballot box," he said. The Malaysian PM also expressed appreciation for his friend Dr Muhammad Yunus for his stewardship as Chief Adviser during this important transition and for ensuring that the democratic process proceeded smoothly. Modi talks to Tarique over phone, reaffirms India's support "Malaysia looks forward to working with the new Bangladeshi leadership to bring new energy to our bilateral ties. I join Malaysians in extending our warmest regards to the people of Bangladesh," said the Malaysian Prime Minister.

Global leaders and diplomatic missions stationed in Dhaka have been quick to congratulate Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Chairman Tarique Rahman on his party’s significant election victory and are signalling a willingness to work closely with Bangladesh under his leadership. India, China, the United States, the United Kingdom, Malaysia, Nepal, Bhutan, Pakistan and the Maldives are among countries which congratulated Tarique Rahman, his party and the people of Bangladesh. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with the BNP chief over the phone and extended support in his endeavour to fulfill the aspirations of the people of Bangladesh. "Delighted to speak with Tarique Rahman. I congratulated him on the remarkable victory in the Bangladesh elections," PM Modi said. He conveyed his best wishes and support in his endeavour to fulfil the aspirations of the people of Bangladesh. "As two close neighbours with deep-rooted historical and cultural ties, I reaffirmed India’s continued commitment to the peace, progress, and prosperity of both our peoples," said the Indian Prime Minister. In a separate message through his X handle, PM Modi conveyed his warm congratulations to Tarique Rahman on leading BNP to a decisive victory in the Parliamentary elections in Bangladesh. "This victory shows the trust of the people of Bangladesh in your leadership," PM Modi said. Progressive, Inclusive Bangladesh India will continue to stand in support of a democratic, progressive and inclusive Bangladesh, he said. "I look forward to working with you to strengthen our multifaceted relations and advance our common development goals," PM Modi said. "Congratulations to the Bangladesh Nationalist Party and its leader Tarique Rahman as well as the people of Bangladesh. The United States looks forward to working with the newly elected government to advance prosperity and the security of the region," said US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. The United States congratulated the people of Bangladesh on a successful election and the Bangladesh Nationalist Party and Tarique Rahman on his historic victory. "The United States looks forward to working with you (Tarique) to realize shared goals of prosperity and security for both our countries," said the US Embassy in Dhaka on Friday morning. Writing New Chapters China congratulated the people of Bangladesh on the smooth and successful 13th national parliamentary election and the Bangladesh Nationalist Party for taking the lead in the election. "We look forward to working together with the new government of Bangladesh and writing new chapters of China-Bangladesh relations," said the Chinese Embassy in Dhaka in a message. China noted that Bangladesh had a steady and smooth general election and congratulates the BNP on winning the election, said Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson. "As a traditional friend and neighbor of Bangladesh, China supports Bangladesh in advancing its domestic political agenda, and stands ready to work with Bangladesh to carry forward the time-honored friendship, deepen high-quality Belt and Road cooperation and practical cooperation in various areas, and further strengthen the China-Bangladesh comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership," said the Chinese government Spokesperson. Modi talks to Tarique over phone, reaffirms India's support The United Kingdom (UK) congratulated BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman and his party on election victory. The UK also greeted the people of Bangladesh as the country enters a new chapter. "We look forward to working together on our shared priorities: economic growth, migration, climate and security," said the British High Commission in Dhaka on Friday in a message through its verified X handle. New Energy in Ties Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim congratulated Tarique Rahman and said Malaysia looks forward to working with the new Bangladeshi leadership to bring new energy to Dhaka-Kuala Lumpur bilateral ties. "I warmly congratulate Tarique Rahman and the Bangladesh Nationalist Party on their emphatic election victory. This is a triumph of democracy: the Bangladeshi people, having navigated a period of extraordinary challenges, have spoken clearly at the ballot box," he said. The Malaysian PM also expressed appreciation to his friend Dr Muhammad Yunus for his stewardship as Chief Adviser during this important transition and for ensuring that the democratic process proceeded smoothly. "Malaysia looks forward to working with the new Bangladeshi leadership to bring new energy to our bilateral ties. I join Malaysians in extending our warmest regards to the people of Bangladesh," said the Malaysian Prime Minister. Partnership to Grow President of the Republic of the Maldives Dr Mohamed Muizzu congratulated BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman on Bangladesh Nationalist Party’s remarkable victory in the 13th National parliamentary elections. "I extend my warm regards and look forward to working closely together, to further advance and deepen the longstanding friendship and cooperation between the Maldives and Bangladesh," he said. 'I am confident that our partnership will continue to grow in scope and strength in the years ahead," said the President of Maldives. Remarkable Victory Prime Minister of Nepal Sushila Karki on Friday congratulated BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman, noting that her country eyes strong ties with Bangladesh. "Warm congratulations to the Government and the people of Bangladesh on the successful conduct of the 13th parliamentary elections," she said in a message. Maldivian President eyes deeper cooperation as he congratulates Tarique, BNP The Nepal’s Prime Minister extended her heartiest congratulations to Tarique Rahman on leading the Bangladesh Nationalist Party to a remarkable victory in the elections . "I look forward to working closely with you to strengthen our neighbourly ties and consolidate cooperation in areas of mutual interest," she said. Warm Ties Prime Minister of Bhutan Tshering Tobgay congratulated BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman on his party's massive election victory. "I look forward to working closely to further strengthen the warm ties of friendship between Bhutan and Bangladesh," he said in a message. "Warmest congratulations to Mr. Tarique Rahman and the BNP on winning the Bangladesh General Elections," said the Bhutanese Prime Minister. He said this resounding mandate reflects the confidence of the people of Bangladesh in Tarique Rahman's leadership and heralds a new chapter of peace and progress. Democratic Bangladesh On behalf of the Indian National Congress, its President Mallikarjun Kharge congratulated BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman and the BNP for winning the Parliamentary elections in Bangladesh. UK congratulates Tarique as well as BNP on election victory "India and Bangladesh share deep rooted bonds of history, language, culture, and multitude of other commonalities," he said. "A democratic, progressive and inclusive Bangladesh would always be supported by all Indians for the stability and peace of our region," said the Congress President. Mamata's Message Chief Minister of West Bengal Mamata Banerjee congratulated BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman, his party and people of Bangladesh, for the election victory, wishing for a cordial relations between the two sides. "My hearty congratulations, shubhonandan, to all my brothers and sisters, all the people, in Bangladesh. My advance Ramazan Mubarak to all of them," she said in a message from her verified X handle. "For this great victory, my congratulations to my Tarique-Bhai, his party, and all the parties. Pray, you all be well and happy," Mamata said. She wished that their relations with Bangladesh would be always cordial.

Counterattacks and widespread vandalism occurred over voting in Kalaiya Port of Baufal Upazila of Patuakhali on Friday. The incidents took place from Friday morning to noon, eyewitnesses said. Jubo Dal activists, including Sujan, Alamin, and Langa Mizan, followers of Upazila Jubo Dal convener Gazi Gias, allegedly attacked the business establishment of decorator businessman Md. Shah Alam Biplob, 46, around 9:15am over claims of voting irregularities. They later beat a timber trader, Md. Selim, 52. Following these attacks, the group reportedly took up residence at Gias’s house armed with country-made weapons. In response, Jamaat-backed activists and local businessmen reportedly attacked Gias’s business establishment and party office, vandalising it extensively. At least 10 motorcycles and a refrigerator kept in front of Gias’s residence were damaged. Meanwhile, Jamaat supporters beat and injured BNP activists Alamgir Gazi, 55, and Shahabuddin Sarda, 48, in the Khairbazar area of West Birpasha, Kanakdia Union, around 8 am. They were admitted to Baufal Upazila Health Complex. Besides, BNP activists and supporters reportedly beat and injured a Jamaat supporter, Md. Firoz, 55, in Mominpur village of Keshabpur Union around 1pm. Firoz was sent to Barisal Sher-e-Bangla Medical College Hospital for treatment. Atiqul Islam, Inspector (Investigation) of Baufal Police Station, said police were sent to the spot after receiving reports of attacks, vandalism, and beatings at several locations. “Legal action will be taken if a written complaint is filed,” he added. Jamaat’s winning candidate, Shafiqul Islam Masud, said, “I do not support revenge politics. Injustice will not be tolerated. If any workers or supporters are involved in attacks, party and legal action will definitely be taken against them.”

President of the Republic of the Maldives Dr Mohamed Muizzu has congratulated BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman on the Party’s remarkable victory in the 13th National parliamentary elections. "I extend my warm regards and look forward to working closely together, to further advance and deepen the longstanding friendship and cooperation between the Maldives and Bangladesh," he said. 'I am confident that our partnership will continue to grow in scope and strength in the years ahead," said the President of Maldives. UK congratulates Tarique as well as BNP on election victory

The United Kingdom (UK) has congratulated BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman and his party -  the Bangladesh Nationalist Party - on  their victory in Bangladesh's 13th Jatiya Sangshad  election. The UK also greeted the people of Bangladesh as the country enters a new chapter. "We look forward to working together on our shared priorities: economic growth, migration, climate and security," said the British High Commission in Dhaka on Friday in a message through its verified X handle. Bhutan PM congratulates Tarique Rahman on BNP’s landslide victory

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.

Zimbabwe caused a seismic shock at the T20 World Cup on Friday, defeating heavyweights Australia by 23 runs at the R. Premadasa Stadium. This is only the second win of Zimbabwe over Australia in the T20 World Cup history. Defending a total of 169 for 2, the Zimbabwean bowling attack, led by pacer Blessing Muzarabani, dismantled the 2021 champions. Muzarabani delivered a career-best spell of 4 for 17, claiming a wicket with his first ball and reaching the milestone of 100 T20I wickets. He was ably supported by Brad Evans, who took 3 for 23. Australia’s chase began disastrously, collapsing to 29 for 4 inside the first five overs. A 77-run partnership for the fifth wicket between Glenn Maxwell (31 off 32) and Matt Renshaw briefly revived Australian hopes. However, once Maxwell was bowled by Ryan Burl in the 15th over, the momentum shifted back to Zimbabwe. Despite a fighting half-century from Renshaw (65 off 44), Australia were bowled out for 146 in 19.3 overs. Earlier, Zimbabwe’s innings was anchored by opener Brian Bennett, who remained unbeaten on 64 off 56 balls. Significant contributions came from Tadiwanashe Marumani (35 off 21), Ryan Burl (35 off 30), and a quickfire cameo from captain Sikandar Raza (25 not-out off 13). The victory moves Zimbabwe to second place in Group B with 4 points, significantly boosting their chances of reaching the Super Eight. Australia, sitting third with 2 points, now faces a must-win scenario in their upcoming clash against group leaders Sri Lanka.

The National Citizen Party (NCP) on Friday alleged that leaders and activists of its 11-party alliance, led by  are being attacked in different parts of the country. In a Facebook post, the party also claimed that the homes and families of its leaders and activists are facing threats. Addressing the winners of the national election, the NCP urged them to control their leaders and activists. “It would be shameful if the beginning of the democratic transition comes through the oppression of the opposition and like-minded people,” it said. NCP demands vote recount in several constituencies, alleges irregularities The National Citizen Party (NCP) secured victory in six constituencies in the national election held on Thursday.

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Friday said their party’s next government will face major challenges in keeping law and order, fighting corruption and boosting the economy. “The biggest challenges for the next government will be to get the economy moving, maintain law and order, control corruption, and ensure justice. These are the challenges,” he said. Fakhrul made the remarks while talking to reporters outside the international terminal of Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport after returning from his electoral area in Thakurgaon. He said the BNP, having won a majority of seats in the 13th parliamentary election, will form the next government under the leadership of party Chairman Tarique Rahman. According to unofficial results, BNP won 209 out of 299 seats. ‘Joy and sadness together’ Commenting on the election results, Fakhrul described the moment as both joyous and sad. “One part is joy, another part is sadness. Our late chairperson and national leader, Begum Khaleda Zia, could not see this unprecedented victory, which is very sad,” he said.    

BNP Standing Committee Member Salahuddin Ahmed on Friday hoped that the newly formed Jatiya Sangsad would be the most productive law-making house since the country’s independence and take steps to amend the Constitution. He also sought cooperation from people from all walks of life to build the country into a talent-based, technology-driven and knowledge-based state in line with the aspirations of the common people, martyrs and the younger generation. Salahuddin made the remarks while responding to questions from journalists in front of the party chairperson’s office in Gulshan in the afternoon. The BNP leader said the much-awaited national election was held peacefully and in a fair and impartial manner, meeting the expectations of the international community. He said the foundation of a strong democracy had been laid and that the process would continue. Salahuddin said democratic reforms of all state institutions and the desired constitutional reforms would be carried out, as outlined in the party’s 31-point manifesto, on the basis of which the election manifesto was prepared. Mirza Abbas says ‘vote engineering’ failed to override people’s mandate He said the July National Charter had already been signed, marking a political agreement. “This is a document of political consensus. It will be followed to the letter." Salahuddin Ahmed elected in the 13th national election obtaining 222,019 votes, while his nearest Jamaat contestant Abdullah Al Faruk bagged 129,728 votes and Islami Andolan contender Sarwar Alam Kutubi gained 4,528 votes.

BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman on Friday expressed gratitude to his supporters for their affection and for helping secure a landslide victory for his party. “I am grateful for the love you have shown me. Please pray for me,” he said while talking to people gathered outside his Gulshan residence before leaving for Jum'a prayers. Tarique went to the Bangladesh Navy Headquarters Mosque around noon from his Gulshan residence to offer Jum'a prayers. A crowd of curious supporters gathered outside his home, eager to catch a glimpse of him. Before leaving, Tarique stopped his car, opened the door himself, and interacted with several supporters. Many in the crowd expressed their commitment to stand by him in building a new Bangladesh. In response, the BNP chief thanked them and then proceeded to the mosque. The development comes a day after the 13th parliamentary election held on Thursday. Tarique contested the election from Dhaka-17 and Bogura-6 constituencies and won both seats. According to unofficial results, BNP secured 209 out of 299 seats. Jamaat-e-Islami, which re-emerged as a significant force following the July uprising, won 68 seats.

BNP senior leader and MP-elect from Dhaka-8 Mirza Abbas on Friday said despite extensive attempts at 'vote engineering' by his man rival candidate, they failed to override the people’s mandate. “A certain group tried to divert the people’s votes through cunning tactics, but their attempts ultimately failed against the tide of public support,” he said. Talking to reporters after visiting his family graveyard in Shahjahanpur following Juma prayers, Abbas alleged that a large number of ballots in his favour were unfairly cancelled. He also expressed surprise at the vote count of his nearest rival National Citizen Party (NCP) candidate Mohammad Nasir Uddin Patwary. “They have no real public support, so how did they get so many votes? This clearly shows the manipulation that took place behind the scenes,” he said. Abbas claimed the NCP candidate had prepared for this kind of engineering well before the election. “What I kept saying repeatedly was that they would attempt an engineering. They have done it. At first, we didn’t understand how they did it, but now we do. This is very dangerous for the nation. It is a bad sign. They should not have done it,” he said. When asked about the possibility of a re-count, Abbas said, “Questions about the transparency of the election remain. However, any decision regarding a re-count or related matters lies entirely with the Election Commission. If they consider it necessary, they can take action.” Despite the allegations, he urged BNP activists to remain calm and patient. “I am pleased with BNP’s decisive victory, and the people are happy too. Citizens voted with joy,” Abbas said replying to a question. According to unofficial results of the 13th Jatiya Sangsad election, Mirza Abbas secured 59,366 votes, while his nearest rival, Mohammad Nasir Uddin Patwary of the NCP, received 54,127 votes.

Bhutan Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay has congratulated BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman on his party's massive election victory. "I look forward to working closely to further strengthen the warm ties of friendship between Bhutan and Bangladesh," he said in a message on Friday. "Warmest congratulations to Tarique Rahman and the BNP on winning the Bangladesh general elections," said the Bhutanese Prime Minister. Bhutanese delegation pays tributes to Khaleda Zia at state funeral He said the resounding mandate reflects the confidence of the people of Bangladesh in Tarique Rahman's leadership and heralds a new chapter of peace and progress.

Prime Minister of Nepal Sushila Karki on Friday congratulated BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman, stating that her country eyes strong ties with Bangladesh. "Warm congratulations to the Government and the people of Bangladesh on the successful conduct of the 13th parliamentary elections," she said in a message. The Nepalese Prime Minister extended her heartiest congratulations to Tarique Rahman on leading the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) to a remarkable victory in Thursday’s elections. Nepal’s Ambassador meets Tarique Rahman "I look forward to working closely with you to strengthen our neighbourly ties and consolidate cooperation in areas of mutual interest," she said.

Calling the election outcome a victory for democracy and Bangladesh, BNP Central Election Steering Committee Spokesperson Mahdi Amin on Friday said the results reflect the aspirations of the country’s people. “This is not just a victory for BNP. It is a victory for democracy. It is a victory for Bangladesh,” he said while talking to reporters in front of the BNP Chairman’s Gulshan office. Mahdi said they are very confident the democratic transition through the election will ensure a free land again where every citizen’s rights and freedoms will be protected. “BNP is the largest and most popular political party in Bangladesh. The emotions, hopes and feelings of the people are closely connected with this party.” Vote-buying proves Jamaat’s political bankruptcy, code violation: Mahdi Amin Mahdi also said BNP is a party of the masses that believes in empowering the grassroots and upholds Bangladesh’s independence, sovereignty and nationalism. “The extraordinary love and support people have shown towards this party have been reflected in this election, where we have witnessed an irresistible, overwhelming and decisive victory.”  The BNP leader said their party firmly believes that the strong public confidence and support received by BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman will be translated into responsible leadership. “We believe the trust, and love that people have shown to our leader, Tarique Rahman—as a prime minister on the future, will ensure the rights and freedoms of every citizen and restore people’s ownership (of the country),” he said. Mahdi also said the next BNP-led government will work to establish a transparent, accountable and people-friendly administration. He said the new government will stand on what he termed a long democratic struggle marked by sacrifices, including enforced disappearances, killings and cases against party activists. “So, Insha’Allah, our leader will fulfill the expectations of the mothers of the martyrs. In the coming Bangladesh, he will change the fate of every person and solve their problems. We believe our leader will ensure the country’s independence, sovereignty and democracy remain intact,” Mahdi observed. He also hoped that the future BNP government will work to establish an accountable, transparent and pro-people administration. Replying to a question, Mahdi said the election has marked the completion of a long-awaited democratic transition through free, fair and credible polls. He also expressed gratitude to global leaders who sent congratulatory messages following the election results. “This is a gracious gesture. Our leader will respond to them in due course.” Mahdi Amin said their party remains committed to ensuring inclusive development, protection of human rights, the rule of law and freedom of expression as part of its broader vision for the country’s future. According to the unofficial results of Thursday’s 13th parliamentary election, BNP won 209 out of 299 seats. Jamaat-e-Islami, which emerged as a significant force following the July uprising, secured 68 seats. The Election Commission is expected to publish the official results after completing all formal procedures. BNP to take action against rebel candidates: Mahdi Amin

After a landslide victory with over a  two-thirds of parliamentary seats, the International Crisis Group on Friday said BNP will need to announce a strong cabinet and hit the ground running if it is to deliver on its ambitious election promises and meet the aspirations of the people of Bangladesh. "The BNP administration that is expected to take office in the coming days faces a number of daunting challenges, including boosting the economy, ensuring security and continuing the reform process," said Thomas Kean, Crisis Group’s Senior Consultant on Myanmar and Bangladesh. Given the importance of this election in restoring faith in the democratic process among Bangladeshis, he said, it is also vital that any allegations of irregularities are taken seriously and the Election Commission handles them in a transparent manner in line with the law. The International Crisis Group is an independent organisation working to prevent wars and shape policies that will build a more peaceful world. Kean said Bangladesh’s first 'credible election' in 17 years has been completed smoothly, with only isolated reports of violence or irregularities. The vote marks an important step towards the restoration of genuine democracy in Bangladesh, he said. The participating political parties, the interim government, the Election Commission and security agencies, not to mention the people of Bangladesh, deserve credit for their contributions to ensuring a safe and credible vote, Kean said. The atmosphere was largely 'festive, with voters appearing optimistic' that the election would lead to lasting change in Bangladesh. "The turnout and strong support for a yes vote in the concurrent referendum on the July Charter – a series of reforms negotiated by all participating parties over the last year – reflect the credibility of both the election and reform process in the eyes of most Bangladeshis," Kean said. The country’s largest islamist party, Jamaat-e-Islami, has recorded its best ever performance, he said. Together with some leaders of the student-led National Citizen Party who have also secured parliamentary seats, it now has the numbers to form a strong opposition capable of holding the government accountable, Kean said.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman on Friday and extended support in his endeavour to fulfill the aspirations of the people of Bangladesh. "Delighted to speak with Mr. Tarique Rahman. I congratulated him on the remarkable victory in the Bangladesh elections," PM Modi said. He conveyed his best wishes and support in his endeavour to fulfill the aspirations of the people of Bangladesh. Modi congratulates Tarique Rahman on BNP’s decisive poll victory "As two close neighbours with deep-rooted historical and cultural ties, I reaffirmed India’s continued commitment to the peace, progress, and prosperity of both our peoples," said the Indian Prime Minister.

Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) secured 209 parliamentary seats, while Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami won 68, as the Election Commission disclosed the statistics of the unofficial election result of 297 constituencies on Friday afternoon. 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. 59.44 percent votes cast in national election:EC EC Senior Secretary Akhtar Ahmed revealed the statistics at a press briefing in the city’s Nirbachan Bhaban. He said the average voter turnout is 59.44 percent (297 constituencies) in the parliamentary election, while the average voter turnout is 60.26 percent (299 constituencies) in the referendum, The EC Secretary said the unofficial result of Chattogram-2 and 4 constituencies has been kept pending (following the court’s decision). The elections to Sherpur-3 was earlier cancelled following the death of a Jamaat candidate. About the referendum, he said 4,80,74,429 voters (68.05 percent of total casting votes) voted for ‘Yes’ option in the referendum ballots, while 2,25,65,627 voters (31.95 percent) for ‘No’ option to decide the fate of the implementation of the July National Charter (Constitutional Reform) Order 2025. All eyes on Tarique Rahman as BNP set to form government

A man was hacked to death allegedly by his wife at Joypur village in Rupsha upazila of Khulna early Friday. The deceased was Mohor Ali, 45, hailed from Bajuya area in Dacope upazila. He used to work at a sweetmeat shop. Mir Razzak, Officer-in-Charge of Rupsa Police Station said the deceased, Mohor Ali, 45, had converted from Hinduism to Islam about 22 years ago and married Hosneara Begum of Joypur village. Ex-BNP leader dies amid tension at Khulna polling centre The victim’s son, Shimul Hossain, said his father returned home from work on Thursday night. His parents were sleeping in the next room. He said that very early in the morning his mother, Hosneara Begum Putul, knocked on their door and told him to keep the door open before leaving. Shimul went back to sleep. Around 6:30am, he woke up after hearing his brother-in-law’s screams and found his father lying in a pool of blood. He said they searched for his mother but could not find her anywhere. Later, they informed police. Shimul alleged that his mother fled after killing his father, taking her necessary clothes with her. Her mobile phone was also found switched off. OC Mir Razzak said police recovered the body and legal steps will be taken. Man beaten to death in Khulna

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.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Friday extended her congratulations to BNP Chairman  Tarique Rahman for guiding his party to victory in Bangladesh’s national election. Taking to X, the West Bengal Chief Minister wrote, “My hearty congratulations, shubhonandan, to all my brothers and sisters, all the people, in Bangladesh. My advance Ramazan mubarak to all of them. For this great victory, my congratulations to my Tarique-Bhai, his party, and all the parties. Pray, you all be well and happy.” Mamata Banerjee mourns death of Khaleda Zia She also voiced optimism about bilateral relations, expressing the hope that ties between India and Bangladesh would continue on a friendly footing. “Wish that our relations with Bangladesh be always cordial,” she said on the social media platform.

Dhaka remained unusually calm and largely empty a day after the national election, as a holiday mood continued to grip the capital. Major thoroughfares and flyovers that are typically choked with traffic wore a deserted look, with only a handful of vehicles seen plying the roads.

A new chapter is set to unfold in Bangladesh politics, as BNP is poised to form a government after securing a two-thirds majority in the national election, held largely in a peaceful atmosphere following years of uncontested polls. The party’s media unit said on X Friday that BNP has secured enough parliamentary seats to govern independently. Although the Election Commission is yet to release the final tally, unofficial results show that BNP has crossed the 151-seat mark required for a majority in Parliament. This outcome marks a remarkable comeback for BNP and its leader Tarique Rahman, positioning him to potentially become Bangladesh’s next prime minister. Just two years ago, Tarique was living in self-imposed exile in London while many BNP members and supporters faced imprisonment under Sheikh Hasina’s regime. Meanwhile, BNP has extended heartfelt congratulations to the people of the country after the decisive election victory. The party has announced that Friday prayers will be offered in mosques in the country after Jum'a seeking eternal peace of late Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, and for the well-being of the nation, according to the party’s media cell. The party said that no rallies or public meetings will be held to celebrate the victory. BNP has urged its leaders, activists and the general people at all levels along with members of its affiliated parties, to participate in the nationwide prayers at mosques. Besides, it called upon the people of all faiths to offer prayers at temples, churches, pagodas, and other places of worship for the prosperity and welfare of the nation. The United States has congratulated the people of Bangladesh for holding a successful national election. In a Facebook post, the US embassy in Dhaka extended greetings to Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and its leader Tarique Rahman on ‘historic victory’. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday conveyed his warm congratulations to Tarique Rahman on leading BNP to a decisive victory in the Parliamentary elections in Bangladesh. “This victory shows the trust of the people of Bangladesh in your leadership,” Modi said in a message. India will continue to stand in support of a democratic, progressive and inclusive Bangladesh, he said. Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has also congratulated Tarique Rahman on "leading the BNP to a resounding victory" in the elections. "I look forward to working closely with the new Bangladesh leadership to further strengthen our historic, brotherly multifaceted bilateral relations and advance our shared goals of peace, stability, and development in South Asia and beyond," he wrote on X. Millions of voters cast their ballots in a festive atmosphere across the country with long queues seen at most polling centres from early morning. Voting began at 7:30am and continued until 4:30pm, followed by counting. The Election Commission Secretariat said around 9 pm that voter turnout averaged 59.44 percent. Voting in 42,651 centres across 299 constituencies concluded largely peacefully, with only isolated incidents of scuffles and tension reported. With the election win of BNP, Bangladesh is set to have a male prime minister for the first time in 35 years. The last male Prime Minister was Kazi Zafar Ahmed, who assumed office in 1988 during the rule of Hussain Muhammad Ershad. Since his departure in 1990, the country’s top executive office had alternated between Khaleda Zia and Sheikh Hasina. Tarique Rahman returned to Bangladesh from London last in December after nearly two decades abroad, responding to what many described as a growing demand for new leadership. The enthusiasm surrounding his return appears to have culminated in the February- 12 election results. Throughout the campaign, Tarique laid emphasis on youth empowerment, women’s advancement and farmers’ welfare. In a country where women make up nearly half the population and thousands of young graduates enter the job market every year, he repeatedly underscored the need to harness youth potential to build a “new Bangladesh.”

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Friday labeled Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami as an ‘extremist party’ and held Awami League responsible for its rise. “Whatever growth Jamaat has seen today is because of Awami League. Their oppressive rule, denying opposition parties the ability to function and isolating them has led to this situation,” Fakhrul said talking to reporters at his residence in Thakurgaon. People have already rejected them and BNP has secured more than a two-thirds majority, he said. “The people will once again be able to curb all anti-progressive forces through fair, honest, and welfare-oriented politics.” he added. Fakhrul recalled BNP’s long-standing struggle against the ‘fascist governments’ over the past 15 years and before that, emphasizing that the party has always worked for the welfare of people and remained close to them. “BNP is one of the most popular parties in the country. I have said before that BNP will achieve a landslide victory in this election,” he said. He also expressed gratitude to voters for BNP’s overwhelming electoral victory.

Russia has confirmed it has blocked the popular messaging app WhatsApp, directing citizens to use the government-backed Max app instead. The move comes shortly after authorities began restricting access to Telegram, another widely used messaging platform in Russia, relied upon by millions including military personnel, senior officials, state media, and government agencies such as the Kremlin and communications regulator Roskomnadzor. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said the decision to block WhatsApp was due to alleged legal violations by its parent company, Meta, which also owns Facebook and Instagram. He described Max as an “affordable alternative” and a “developing national messenger.” Peskov added that the authorities acted because WhatsApp had allegedly refused to comply with Russian law. Earlier on Thursday, WhatsApp released a statement saying the Russian government had “attempted to fully block” the service, calling the move an effort to “drive people to a state-owned surveillance app.” The company warned that isolating over 100 million users from secure and private communication is a “backwards step” that could reduce safety for people in Russia, and pledged to continue efforts to keep its users connected.  #With inputs from CNN

Australian actor Rose Byrne, fresh from winning a Golden Globe and earning an Oscar nomination for her lead role in “If I Had Legs I’d Kick You,” will be honored as the 2026 Woman of the Year by Harvard University’s Hasty Pudding Theatricals on Friday. Byrne, known for her roles in films such as “Bridesmaids,” “Neighbors,” “Insidious” and the TV series “Damages,” will join a celebratory parade through the streets of Cambridge, Massachusetts. She will later receive the traditional pudding pot award at a roast ceremony and attend a performance of the troupe’s 177th production, “Salooney Tunes.” In a review of the film, AP critic Jocelyn Noveck said Byrne was given “a chance to display versatility and grit in surely the toughest dramatic role of her career.” Sonam Kapoor hosts heartfelt Baby Shower, Kareena Kapoor Khan, Anil Kapoor among guests Actor Michael Keaton, famed for “Batman,” “Birdman,” “Beetlejuice” and “Spotlight,” was named the 2026 Man of the Year and received his pudding pot on Feb. 6. “We are thrilled to honor Rose Byrne as our Woman of the Year,” Hasty Pudding Theatricals President Daisy Nussbaum said in a statement, noting that her recent Golden Globe win and Oscar nomination made the recognition fitting. The Hasty Pudding Theatricals is the oldest theatrical organization in the United States and among the oldest globally. Since 1951, it has presented the annual award to leading actresses including Meryl Streep, Julia Roberts, Scarlett Johansson and Annette Bening. Last year’s recipient was “Wicked” star Cynthia Erivo. Byrne has also appeared in “Juliet, Naked,” “Get Him to the Greek” and “28 Weeks Later.” Her stage work includes productions at the Brooklyn Academy of Music, and she is set to star opposite Kelli O’Hara in the Broadway revival of “Fallen Angels” beginning in March. Ireland introduces world’s first permanent basic income scheme for artists

BNP senior leader Nazrul Islam Khan on Friday said that those raising allegations over Thursday’s  parliamentary elections must provide evidence to support their claims. Talking to journalists at the Election Commission, Nazrul Islam responded to allegations made by Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami regarding alleged vote rigging and warnings of protests. “They may feel hurt and express themselves, but if anyone makes allegations against someone, it is their responsibility to prove them,” he said, adding that no allegations had been made directly against his party. Nazrul Islam, who serves as chairman of the BNP’s Election Steering Committee, said the party was observing victories in more than two-thirds of the constituencies. He said this indicated that the electorate had given BNP the mandate to govern for the next five years. Nazrul described the day as “a significant one in Bangladesh’s history” and said voters had once again entrusted the party with governing responsibilities. He also expressed gratitude to supporters and thanked the electorate. When asked about the possibility of forming a national government, Nazrul said there had been no discussions on the matter. He clarified that his visit to the Election Commission was not an official party briefing, adding that BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman would later deliver a formal statement on behalf of the party. Nazrul Islam said BNP’s coalition partners had also secured victories, which he said reflected public confidence in the alliance’s leadership and future plans. Comparing the latest election with previous polls, he said that earlier elections had seen significant loss of life, whereas this time there had been no reported casualties, describing it as an important development. He, however, acknowledged that voter turnout had not reached expected levels and expressed hope that participation would increase in future elections. Nazrul Islam thanked media organisations for their coverage, saying it had helped voters understand BNP’s plans and contributed to the electoral outcome.

Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has also congratulated Tarique Rahman on "leading the BNP to a resounding victory" in the elections. "I look forward to working closely with the new Bangladesh leadership to further strengthen our historic, brotherly multifaceted bilateral relations and advance our shared goals of peace, stability, and development in South Asia and beyond," he wrote on X. Bangladesh and Pakistan developed closer ties following Sheikh Hasina’s fall. Modi congratulates Tarique Rahman on BNP’s decisive poll victory At the end of last month, a commercial flight operated from Dhaka to Karachi, marking the first direct connection between the two nations in 14 years. Several months earlier, Pakistan’s foreign minister visited Dhaka for the first time in 13 years. Besides, senior military officials from both countries held bilateral meetings on security cooperation, and trade between them grew by 27% in 2024-25, reports BBC.

A total of 47 BNP-led alliance candidates and 20 Jamaat-led coalition contestants have been elected in 71 constituencies, according to results announced by the Election Commission till 8:40am on Friday. The EC also said one candidate each from Gono Odhikar Parishad, Bangladesh Khelafat Majlish and  an independent candidate secured victory in the constituencies where results were declared. Voting in the national election and the referendum was held simultaneously in 299 out of 300 constituencies on Thursday in a festive and largely peaceful atmosphere. EC's official announcements see BNP take lead in 15 seats, Jamaat in 4 BNP candidates have secured victories in a majority of the announced constituencies while Jamaat-e-Islami and a few other parties also won several seats in different parts of the country. BNP’s Salahuddin Ahmed secured a commanding victory in Cox’s Bazar-1 with 222,019 votes defeating Jamaat’s Abdullah Al Faruk. In Bandarban, BNP candidate Saching Pru won with 141,455 votes, defeating NCP candidate Abu Sayed Md Sujauddin. In Panchagarh-1, BNP candidate Muhammad Naushad Jamir won with 176,169 votes, defeating NCP candidate Sarjis Alam who secured 168,049 votes. In Panchagarh-2, BNP’s Farhad Hossain Azad bagged 174,650 votes outpacing Jamaat candidate Shafiul Alam who received 128,862 votes. Jamaat candidate Abdul Montakim won Nilphamari-4 with 126,222 votes against BNP’s Abdul Gafur Sarkar who got 82,086. In Joypurhat-1, Jamaat’s Fazlur Rahman Sayeed secured 165,192 votes while BNP’s Masud Rana Prodhan polled 155,309. BNP, however, clinched Joypurhat-2 as Abdul Bari received 158,065 votes compared to Jamaat’s SM Rashedul Alam with 92,517. BNP on cusp of historic win: 'Celebrate with prayers, not processions,' says Tarique BNP swept all seven seats in Bogura. In Bogura-1, Kazi Rafiqul Islam secured 171,440 votes, while in Bogura-2 Mir Shahe Alam got 145,024. Abdul Muhith Talukder won Bogura-3 with 127,406 votes, Mossarraf Hossain secured Bogura-4 with 155,339, Golam Mohammad Siraj bagged 248,841 in Bogura-5, Tarique Rahman received 216,284 in Bogura-6 and Morshed Milton won Bogura-7 with 264,212 votes. Jamaat candidates finished runners-up in all these seats. Jamaat won all three seats in Chapainawabganj. Keramat Ali won Chapainawabganj-1 with 206,893 votes, Mizanur Rahman secured Chapainawabganj-2 with 171,227 and Nurul Islam clinched Chapainawabganj-3 with 189,640 votes. In Naogaon, BNP won four of six seats. Mostafizur Rahman won Naogaon-1 with 173,864 votes, Fazle Huda secured Naogaon-3 with 166,889, Ekramul Bari Tipu won Naogaon-4 with 133,924, Jahidul Islam Dhalu clinched Naogaon-5 with 129,385 and Sheikh Md Rezaul Islam won Naogaon-6 with 108,866. Jamaat’s Enamul Haque won Naogaon-2 with 141,526 votes. The other winning and defeating candidates are(with the number of votes they secured) : Rajshahi-2: BNP candidate Mizanur Rahman Minu (128,546) and Jamaat candidate Mohammad Jahangir (100,370) Rajshahi-3: BNP candidate Shafikul Haque Milon (176,318) and Jamaat candidate Abul Kalam Azad (137,927) Rajshahi-4: Jamaat candidate Abdul Bari Sardar (115,226) and BNP candidate DMD Ziaur Rahman (109,461) Rajshahi-5: BNP candidate Nazrul Islam (153,425) and Jamaat candidate Monjur Rahman (73,445) Rajshahi-6: BNP candidate Abu Sayeed Chad (148,672) and Jamaat candidate Nazmul Haque (92,965) Natore-1: BNP candidate Farzana Sharmin (102,726) and Jamaat candidate Abul Kalam Azad (90,568) Natore-2: BNP candidate Ruhul Kuddus Talukder Dulu (162,841) and Jamaat candidate Yunus Ali (130,066) Natore-3: BNP candidate Anwarul Islam (119,768) and independent candidate Daudar Mahmud (66,492)  Sirajganj-2: BNP candidate Iqbal Hasan Mahmud Tuku (177,578) and Jamaat candidate Jahidul Islam (138,797) Sirajganj-3: BNP candidate Aynul Haque (174,430) and Bangladesh Khelataf Majlish candidate Abdur Rauf Sarkar (116,802) Sirajganj-4: Jamaat candidate Rafiqul Islam Khan (161,872) and BNP candidate Akbar Ali (161,278) Sirajganj-5: BNP candidate Amirul Islam Khan (134,989) and Jamaat candidate Ali Alam (106,805) Sirajganj-6: BNP candidate MA Muhith (171,508) and NCP candidate SM Saif Mustafiz (103,884)  Pabna-1: Jamaat candidate Nazibur Rahman (129,974) and BNP candidate Shamsur Rahman (104,245) Pabna-2: BNP candidate AKM Selim Reza Habib (215,406) and Jamaat Candidate Hesab Uddin (77,242)  Pabna-3: Jamaat candidate Ali Asgar (147,475) and BNP candidate Hasan Jafir Tuhin (144,206) Pabna-4: Jamaat candidate Abu Taleb Mondal (137,675) and BNP candidate Habibur Rahman(133,874 ) Pabna-5: BNP candidate Samsur Rahman Shimul Biswas (181,925) and Jamaat Candidate Iqbal Hossain (164,994) Meherpur-1: Jamaat candidate Tajuddin Khan (123,271) and BNP candidate Masud Arun (105,441) Meherpur-2: Jamaat candidate Nazmul Huda (96,306) and BNP candidate Amzad Hossain(85,988 ) Kushtia-4: Jamaat candidate Afzal Hossain (148,201) and BNP candidate Syed Mehedi Ahmed Rumi (139,603 ) Jashore-4: Jamaat candidate Golam Rasul (176,912) and BNP candidate Matiyar Rahman Farazi(131,917 ) Jashore-6: Jamaat candidate Mokhtar Ali (92,234) and BNP candidate Abul Hossain Azad (80,141) Magura-2: BNP candidate Nitai Ray Chowdhury (147,896) and Jamaat candidate Mostarsher Billah (117,018) Narail-2: Jamaat candidate Ataur Rahman (118,142), Independent Candidate Monirul Islam (78,457) and BNP candidate AZM Fariduzzaman (45,463) Patuakhali-1: BNP candidate Altaf Hossain Chowdhury (152,087) and Islami Andolan candidate Firoz Alam (58,161) Patuakhali-2: Jamaat candidate Shafiqul Islam Masud (100,750) and BNP candidate Shahidul Alam Talukder (72,676) Patuakhali-3: Ganaodhikar Parishad candidate Nurul Haque Nur (97,323) and Independent candidate Hasan Al Mamun (81,361) Patuakhali-4: BNP candidate ABM Mosharraf Hossain (124,013) and Islami Andolan candidate Mostafizur Rahman (70,127) Tangail-7: BNP candidate Abul Kalam Azad Siddiqui (141,253) and Jamaat candidate Abdullah Ebne Abul Hossain (71,040) Tangail-8: BNP candidate Ahmed Azam Khan (1,14,217), Independent candidate Salauddin Alamgir (77,130) and Jamaat Candidate Shafiqul Alam (55,709) Sherpur-2: BNP candidate Fahim Chowdhury (118,472) and Jamaat candidate Golam Kibria (108,335) Tarique Rahman wins both Dhaka-17, Bogura-6 seats

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).

Dhaka, the densely populated capital of Bangladesh, ranked third among the world’s most polluted cities on Friday morning, recording an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 214 at 10:34 am. Today, the city’s air was classified as ‘very unhealthy’, indicating a serious health threat, according to the AQI report. Lahore in Pakistan, Karachi in Pakistan, and Kolkata in India occupied the first, second, and fourth spots on the list, with AQI scores of 234 227, and 197 respectively. According to the AQI scale, a reading between 50 and 100 is considered ‘moderate’, with generally acceptable air quality, though sensitive individuals should limit prolonged outdoor exertion. AQI levels of 101–150 are ‘unhealthy for sensitive groups’, 151–200 is ‘unhealthy’, 201–300 is ‘very unhealthy’, and readings above 301 are considered ‘hazardous’, posing severe health risks. The AQI, which reports daily air quality, informs residents how clean or polluted the air is and highlights potential health effects. In Bangladesh, the AQI is calculated based on five key pollutants: particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), carbon monoxide (CO), sulfur dioxide (SO2), and ozone. Dhaka has long struggled with air pollution. Air quality usually deteriorates in winter and improves during the monsoon season. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that air pollution causes about seven million deaths worldwide each year, primarily from stroke, heart disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, lung cancer, and acute respiratory infections.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday conveyed his warm congratulations to Tarique Rahman on leading BNP to a decisive victory in the Parliamentary elections in Bangladesh. “This victory shows the trust of the people of Bangladesh in your leadership,” Modi said in a message. India will continue to stand in support of a democratic, progressive and inclusive Bangladesh, he said. "I look forward to working with you to strengthen our multifaceted relations and advance our common development goals," he added.  Voting in Bangladesh’s national election concluded on Thursday in a largely peaceful atmosphere, with high hopes of restoring genuine democracy and securing a strong mandate for national reforms. The polling in Bangladesh began at 7:30am and continued until 4:30pm without interruption at 42,659 polling stations in 299 out of 300 constituencies, amid the deployment of nearly one million security personnel and another one million polling staff.

Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami on Friday warned of launching a tough movement if people’s opinions and voting rights are manipulated through any conspiracy. Jamaat’s Assistant Secretary General Ehsanul Mahbub Jubayer came up with the warning while talking to reporters on The Election  Commission premises early in the morning. Jubayer said if there is any attempt to ‘manipulate’ the people’s mandate and voting rights through conspiracies, Jamaat will announce programmes and if necessary, go for a hard movement. Referring to past elections, the Jamaat leader said the nation still carries the trauma of the 2014, 2018 and 2024 elections. “We have seen what happened in the elections of 2014, 2018 and 2024. Those who conducted those elections—where are they now?” he asked.  He said Jamaat would not expect the current Election Commission to face a similar fate. Responding to a question, Jubayer said Jamaat respects any opinion expressed by people in a dignified manner. “But if anyone conspires or plots using the people’s opinions, we will not accept it,” he said.  Various conspiracies surrounding elections had taken place in the past as well which the people of the country did not accept, he said. He stressed that Jamaat would continue to remain vigilant to ensure that the people’s mandate is respected and protected.

Barishal-3 (Babuganj–Muladi) candidate Barrister Fuad has congratulated his opponent, Zainul Abedin, on his electoral victory, expressing gratitude to the voters and party leaders who supported him throughout the campaign. In a Facebook post on Friday morning, he thanked the 61,192 respected voters who stood by him in support of justice, freedom, and a new political arrangement. He also expressed special gratitude to the leaders and activists of the 11-party alliance, including Jamaat and NCP, for their tireless efforts in working for his electoral symbol. Voting in Bangladesh’s national election concluded on Thursday in a largely peaceful atmosphere, raising hopes of restoring genuine democracy and securing a strong mandate for national reforms. Polling began at 7:30am and continued until 4:30pm without interruption at 42,659 polling stations across 299 of the country’s 300 constituencies, amid the deployment of nearly one million security personnel and another one million polling staff. Alongside the parliamentary election, voters also participated in a referendum to express their views through ‘Yes’ or ‘No’ votes on proposals for several constitutional amendments.

Italy celebrated a landmark moment in its cricket history by registering its first-ever win at a T20 World Cup, thrashing Nepal by 10 wickets on Thursday, while India and Sri Lanka maintained their perfect starts to the tournament. At the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, brothers Anthony and Justin Mosca powered Italy to victory with an unbeaten 124-run opening stand after Nepal were bowled out for 123. Anthony smashed 62 off 32 balls and Justin added 60 off 44 as Italy chased down the target in just 12.4 overs. It was Italy’s first win at a global cricket event and only the second 10-wicket victory by an associate nation in T20 World Cup history. Messi suffers hamstring strain, doubtful for Inter Miami’s MLS opener Earlier, Crishan Kalugamage claimed 3-18 and Ben Manenti took 2-9 as Nepal collapsed, losing seven wickets for 30 runs. In New Delhi, defending champion and co-host India defeated Namibia by 93 runs. Ishan Kishan struck 61 off 24 balls, while Hardik Pandya shone with 52 off 28 deliveries and 2-21 with the ball. Spinner Varun Chakravarthy triggered Namibia’s collapse with 3-7. Meanwhile, in Pallekele, Sri Lanka crushed Oman by 105 runs. Captain Dasun Shanaka blasted a 19-ball half-century as Sri Lanka posted 225-5, the highest total of the tournament so far. Oman managed 120-9 in reply. India top Group A, while Sri Lanka have two wins from two matches.

The United States has congratulated the people of Bangladesh for holding a successful national election. In a Facebook post, the US embassy in Dhaka extended greetings to Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and its leader Tarique Rahman on ‘historic victory’. “The United States looks forward to working with you to realize shared goals of prosperity and security for both our countries,” it added.

BNP Standing Committee member Salahuddin Ahmed has said he feels a profound sense of responsibility and accountability to the people of his constituency who have elected him as their representative in the 13th Jatiya Sangshad. Reacting to the announcement of the unofficial results, he told the media that in Cox’s Bazar-1 (Chakaria and Pekua), voters had earlier elected his wife with a significant margin during his absence, which further deepened his sense of responsibility towards the people of the area. “People of this area were long deprived of development. I spent my childhood and school years here, and I have always dreamed of doing something for this region,” he said. Expressing gratitude to the people of Bangladesh, he said, “When I was in enforced disappearance, people prayed for me and journalists wrote about me. By the grace of Allah, your prayers were answered and I returned with dignity to a fascism-free Bangladesh.” He said he had made many commitments and would strive to deliver even more than he had promised. Referring to the party’s overall victory, Salahuddin said the victory had been anticipated. “We will not hold any victory processions. We have many responsibilities ahead. We do not want to create any tension through celebratory rallies,” he added. According to the unofficial results, Salahuddin Ahmed secured 222,019 votes. His nearest rival, Jamaat candidate Abdullah Al Faruk, received 129,728 votes, while Islami Andolan contender Sarwar Alam Kutubi obtained 4,528 votes.

Bangladesh Jatiya Party (BJP) Chairman Andaleeve Rahman Partho has won the Bhola-1 constituency in the 13th national election by a significant margin. He secured 104,462 votes with the party’s ‘Bullock Cart’ symbol. His nearest rival, Jamaat-e-Islami candidate Principal Nazrul Islam, received 73,773 votes with the ‘Scale’ symbol. In the key district seat, Islami Andolan candidate Maulana Obaidur Rahman polled 25,092 votes with the ‘Hand Fan’ symbol. AL silence on Khaleda: Politics can be very cruel sometimes, says Partho Among the other candidates, Ainur Rahman Jewel Mia of Gono Odhikar Parishad secured 1,103 votes with the ‘Truck’ symbol, Akbar Hossain of Jatiya Party received 594 votes with the ‘Plough’ symbol, Mohammad Ashraf Ali of Islamic Front got 302 votes, Md Mizanur Rahman of the National People’s Party (NPP) obtained 213 votes with the ‘Mango’ symbol, and independent candidate Rafizul Hossain received 133 votes with the ‘Sunflower’ symbol.

The National Citizen Party (NCP) has demanded a recount of votes in several constituencies, alleging irregularities and manipulation in the announcement of election results. The party alleges that the results are being tampered with in a planned manner in some centres. NCP Spokesperson Asif Mahmud Shojib Bhuyain made the allegation at a press conference held at the NCP central office in Bangla Motor in the small hours on Friday. “We are getting clear evidence of result tampering aimed at the 11-party alliance’s top candidates,” he alleged. He claimed to have found discrepancies between figures reported by the media, centre-wise vote counts, and announcements made by returning officers in several constituencies. Former adviser also alleged irregularities in different constituencies in Dhaka, claiming that in some cases, winners were declared before the completion of full vote counting, while in others, results from individual centres were later reversed. He further alleged unrest and pressure in Kurigram-1 and Kurigram-2 following unofficial victory announcements for alliance candidates. Pointing to Dhaka-8, he claimed that ballots stamped outside the designated marker box were counted in favour of a sheaf of paddy symbol (for BNP). Brother of Kurigram-2 NCP candidate attacked He also claimed that when they contacted those concerned about this matter, they were blaming each other. The NCP leader urged the Election Commission to review the disputed constituencies before finalising the results and exclude the false votes.

Dhaka University Central Students’ Union (DUCSU) Vice President Md Abu Shadik ( Kayem), has alleged attempts to manipulate election results and called on the Election Commission to release accurate results for all constituencies. In a Facebook post published around 4am on Friday from his verified account, Shadik said the attitude of officials and law enforcement personnel changed in many constituencies across the country after voting ended. He alleged that there were attempts to alter public mandates in several seats through what he described as “election engineering”. Shadik also said results in Dhaka-8, Dhaka-13 and Dhaka-17, among other constituencies, were withheld in an attempt to change outcomes. He claimed that results in Dhaka-4 and Dhaka-16 were suspended even after being announced. Shadik further said that although results of all constituencies had not yet been declared, a leading national media outlet reported that a particular party had secured more than 200 seats. Referendum: DUCSU announces month-long programme to secure victory for ‘Yes’ He alleged that state institutions, including media and agencies, were used to influence the election outcome. Calling on the Election Commission to publish correct results for every constituency, he said that holding what he termed a “staged election” after the July movement and handing over power to one party would contradict the spirit of those who sacrificed their lives.

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has sought the people's prayers so that he can honour his commitments and work for the country following his election as MP for Thakurgaon-1. In a Facebook post after the announcement of the unofficial results on Thursday night, he expressed gratitude to the Almighty and described the outcome as the culmination of a long struggle. “After a long 17-year struggle, today’s victory is the victory of Bangladesh,” he wrote. He paid tribute to the martyrs of the 1971 Liberation War, Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman, Begum Khaleda Zia, Ilias Ali, Suman and “thousands of leaders and activists who are no longer with us”. He also remembered the “July Martyrs”, saying the new Bangladesh had been achieved through their sacrifice. Mirza Fakhrul expressed gratitude to party Chairman Tarique Rahman, party leaders and activists, and people of all faiths and communities, including Hindus, Muslims, Buddhists, Christians and indigenous groups. He also thanked his family, the interim government, law enforcement agencies and the armed forces. “The responsibility has increased greatly. Please pray for me so that I can keep my promise and work for you,” he wrote.

Supporters of Jamaat-e-Islami and BNP clashed over election results in Jagannathpur village of Kalidaspur Union of Alamdanga Upazila on Thursday evening, leaving at least six Jamaat workers injured. The injured are Lutfar Rahman, 55, his son Abu Hasan, 23, Abu Bakkar Siddique, 60, Ikramul Haque, 45, Shamik, 21, Atiar Rahman, 50, and Shariful Islam, 48. They have received primary treatment locally. Jamaat leader held with cash near Chuadanga polling center Locals said the confrontation began as a verbal argument between supporters of the two parties after the announcement of the election results. The dispute later escalated into a chase and physical clash. Boni Israel, Officer-in-Charge of Alamdanga Police Station, said police quickly intervened to bring the situation under control. “The situation is currently normal. Legal action will be taken if a written complaint is lodged,” he added.

Former Norwegian Prime Minister Thorbjørn Jagland has been charged with gross corruption over his links to convicted US sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, Norwegian police said. The charge was filed after the Council of Europe lifted Jagland’s diplomatic immunity, which he held due to his former role as secretary general of the organisation. His lawyer said Jagland denies criminal liability and is ready to cooperate with investigators. Norway’s economic crime unit Økokrim has searched three of Jagland’s properties and is expected to question him as part of the investigation. Authorities launched the probe earlier this month into alleged acts of gross corruption said to have taken place between 2011 and 2018, during Jagland’s tenure at the Council of Europe. Documents released by the US Department of Justice, often referred to as the Epstein files, suggest Epstein may have covered travel expenses for Jagland and his family to visit properties in Paris, New York and Palm Beach. A planned family trip to Epstein’s private Caribbean island in 2014 was later cancelled. There are also allegations that Jagland sought Epstein’s help in securing a bank loan, although it remains unclear whether this occurred. Police have not confirmed whether that claim forms part of the charge. Being named in the US files does not in itself indicate wrongdoing. Jagland served as Norway’s prime minister from 1996 to 1997 and later chaired the Norwegian Nobel Committee. He was secretary general of the Council of Europe from 2009 to 2019. The case comes amid wider scrutiny in Norway after US authorities released millions of emails, images and investigative records related to Epstein, who died in 2019 while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges. Several other Norwegian public figures have faced investigation or review over alleged links to Epstein, including diplomats and senior officials. Some have denied wrongdoing, while others have apologised for past associations. The investigation into Jagland is ongoing.   With inputs from BBC

BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman has instructed leaders and activists at all organisational levels of the party not to hold any victory processions or rallies as the party moves towards a historic victory in the 13th national election. Tarique also directed party leaders and supporters to offer special prayers across the country after Jumma prayers on Friday, according to a statement issued by the BNP Chairman’s Press Secretary Saleh Shibli. In a separate statement, BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Advocate Ruhul Kabir Rizvi extended greetings and congratulations to the people of the country, including those in Dhaka, following the party’s victory in a large number of seats in the election. The statement said that special prayers would be offered in mosques across the country after Jumma on Friday, organised by BNP, seeking eternal peace for the departed soul of ‘Mother of Democracy’ former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia and for the wellbeing of the nation. It was emphasised that no victory processions or public gatherings would be held by BNP despite its electoral success. Leaders and activists of BNP and its associate bodies, along with members of the public, have been requested to participate in the prayers at mosques nationwide. People of other faiths have also been requested to offer prayers in temples, churches, pagodas and other places of worship across the country. Tarique Rahman wins both Dhaka-17, Bogura-6 seats Voting in Bangladesh’s national election concluded on Thursday in a largely peaceful atmosphere, with high hopes of restoring genuine democracy and securing a strong mandate for national reforms. The polling in Bangladesh began at 7:30am and continued until 4:30pm without interruption at 42,659 polling stations in 299 out of 300 constituencies, amid the deployment of nearly one million security personnel and another one million polling staff.

NCP Chief Organiser (Northern Region) Sarjis Alam was defeated in Panchagarh-1 as the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) won both parliamentary seats in Panchagarh district, according to unofficial results announced on early Friday. Kazi Md Sayemuzzaman, Returning Officer and Deputy Commissioner of Panchagarh, announced the results and declared the winners unofficially. All candidates from both constituencies were present during the announcement. In Panchagarh-1, BNP candidate Barrister Mohammad Nawshad Zamir, contesting with the ‘Sheaf of Paddy’ symbol, was unofficially elected with 186,189 votes. His nearest rival, Jamaat and NCP alliance candidate Md Sarjis Alam, who contested with the ‘Shapla Koli’ symbol, received 168,049 votes. In the constituency’s referendum vote, 219,576 voters cast “Yes” votes, while 99,594 voted “No”. No compromise on Nasiruddin Patwary issue: Hasnat In Panchagarh-2, BNP candidate Forhad Hossain Azad won the seat unofficially with 174,650 votes. Jamaat candidate Md Safiullah Sufi, contesting with the ‘Dartipalla’ symbol, secured 128,862 votes. In the referendum in this seat, 163,875 voters voted “Yes” and 129,088 voted “No”.

Four BNP candidates including its standing committee member Salahuddin Ahmed and one Jamaat contestant were unofficially elected, according to the announcement the Election Commission made after Thursday midnight. In Cox’s Bazar-1: BNP standing committee member Salahuddin Ahmed obtained 222,019 votes, while his nearest Jamaat contestant Abdullah Al Faruk bagged 129,728 votes and Islami Andolan contender Sarwar Alam Kutubi gained 4,528 votes. In Chattogram-16: Jamaat candidate Jahirul Islam obtained 93,167 votes, while his nearest rival BNP’s Mishkatul Islam Chowdhury gained 83,105 votes, independent candidate Leyakat Ali pocketed 55,492 votes, Islami Andolan got 4,054 votes. In Bandarban: BNP candidate Saching Pru obtained 141,455 votes, while his nearest rival NCP contender Abu Sayed Md Sujauddin got 26,162 votes. EC's official announcements see BNP take lead in 15 seats, Jamaat in 4 In Sherpur-2:  BNP candidate Fahim Chowdhury obtained 118,472 votes, while his nearest rival Jamaat contender Golam Kibria got 108,335 votes. In Tangail-7: BNP candidate Abul Kalam Azad Siddiqui obtained 141,253 votes, while his nearest rival Jamaat contender Abdullah Ebne Abul Hossain got 71,040 votes.

BNP-led alliance candidates have taken lead in 15 constituencies, while Jamaat-led coalition contestants in four constituencies, according to the partial election results of 19 parliamentary seats, announced by the Election Commission. Joypurhat-2: BNP candidate Md Abdul Bari bagged 157,128 votes, while his nearest rival Jamaat contestant SM Rashedul Alam obtained 91,012 votes in 104 out of 105 polling stations. Habiganj-3: BNP candidate GK Gous bagged 58,456 votes, while his nearest rival Jamaat contestant Kazi Mohsin Ahmed obtained 17,503 votes in 57 out of 138 polling stations. Bogura-5: BNP candidate Golam Mohammad Siraz obtained 162,801 votes, while his nearest rival Jamaat’s Dabibur Rahman pocketed 101,362 votes in 124 out of 189 polling stations. Bogura-6: BNP chairman Tarique Rahman gained 144,913 votes, while his nearest rival Jamaat’s Abidur Rahman obtained 67,823 votes in 101 out of 151 polling stations. Cumilla-1: BNP candidate Dr Khandaker Mosharraf Hossain obtained 98,377 votes, while his nearest rival Jamaat’s Moniruzzaman pocketed 59,750 votes in 103 out of 146 polling stations. Cumilla-3: BNP candidate Kazi Shah Mofazzel Hossain Kaikobad bagged 76,442 votes, while his nearest rival Jamaat contestant Yousuf Sohel obtained 50,952 votes 75 out of 160 polling stations. Cumilla-9: BNP candidate Abdul Kalam obtained 88,424 votes, while his nearest rival Jamaat contestant Syed AKM Sarwar Uddin Siddiqui gained 55,379 votes 69 out of 135 polling stations. Cumilla-10: BNP candidate Mobasser Alam Bhuiyan obtained 75,211 votes, while his nearest rival Jamaat contestant Yasin Arafat gained 51,187 votes 71 out of 153 polling stations. Madaripur-3:  BNP candidate Anisur Rahman gained 43,514 votes, while his nearest rival Jamaat contestant Rafiqul Islam obtained 35,400 votes in 59 out of 135 polling stations. Sylhet-4:  BNP candidate Ariful Haque Chowdhury obtained 49,875 votes, while his nearest rival Jamaat contestant Joynal Abedin gained 24,603 votes in 51 out of 173 polling stations. Sylhet-6: BNP candidate Emran Ahmed Chowdhury 66,720 votes, while his nearest rival Jamaat contestant Md Selim Uddin obtained 52,530 votes in 95 out of 193 polling stations. Chandpur-1: BNP candidate ANM Ehsanul Haque Milon obtained 55,249 votes, while his nearest Jamaat contestant Abu Nasar Mohammad Makbul Ahmed gained 29,321 votes 49 out of 110 polling stations. Chandpur-2: BNP candidate Jamal Uddin obtained 57,908 votes, while his nearest LDP contestant Billal Hossain gained 15,430 votes in 55 out of 98 polling stations. Chandpur-3: BNP candidate Sheikh Farid Ahmed obtained 84,996 votes, while his nearest rival Jamaat contestant Md Shahjahan Miah gained 49,851 votes in 85 out of 166 polling stations. Nilphamari-2: Jamaat contestant Al-Faruk Abdul Latif gained 82,432 votes, while his nearest rival BNP candidate Shahrin Islam obtained 69,122 votes in 74 out of 135 polling stations. Chapainawabganj-2: Jamaat contestant Md Mizanur Rahman gained 77,158 votes, while his nearest rival BNP candidate Aminul Islam obtained 73,655 votes in 90 out of 185 polling stations. 13th JS Election ‘very good by any standard’ in country’s history: CEC  Chapainawabganj-3: Jamaat contestant Nurul Islam (Bulbul) gained 58,951 votes, while his nearest rival BNP candidate Harunur Rashid obtained 40,376 votes in 56 out of 173 polling stations. Rajbari-2: BNP candidate Harunur Rashid obtained 177,737 votes, while his nearest rival NCP contestant Jamil Hizazi gained 53,267 votes in 156 out of 199 polling stations. Faridpur-1: Jamaat contestant Elius Mollah gained 61,872 votes, while his nearest rival BNP candidate Khandarkar Nasir Uddin obtained 53,129 votes in 75 out of 198 polling stations.

Jamaat-e-Islami has won three of the four parliamentary seats in Jhenaidah district, while BNP secured one seat, according to unofficial results announced early Friday. Abdullah Al Masud, Returning Officer and Deputy Commissioner of Jhenaidah, announced the results around 1am after vote counting ended in a peaceful environment. In Jhenaidah-1, former Attorney General and BNP candidate Advocate Md Asaduzzaman was unofficially elected with 173,381 votes. His nearest rival, Jamaat candidate Motiur Rahman, received 57,055 votes. In Jhenaidah-2, Jamaat candidate Ali Azam Md Abu Bakar won the seat with 131,865 votes, defeating BNP candidate Abdul Majid, who secured 105,664 votes. In Jhenaidah-3, Jamaat’s Motiar Rahman was unofficially elected with 175,857 votes. His closest rival, BNP candidate Mehedi Hasan Rony, got 149,857 votes. In Jhenaidah-4, Jamaat candidate Abu Talib won with 105,999 votes. Expelled BNP leader Saiful Islam Firoz secured 77,104 votes, while BNP-nominated candidate Rashed Khan came third with 56,224 votes. BNP’s Asaduzzaman unofficially wins Jhenaidah-1 by huge margin District Election Officer Abul Hossain said polling in all four constituencies was held in a peaceful and festive atmosphere. Supporters of the Jamaat-led alliance gathered at the Deputy Commissioner’s office and celebrated as results from different centres were announced.

National Citizen Party (NCP) Chief Organiser (South Region) Hasnat Abdullah has said there can be no compromise over the issue concerning Nasiruddin Patwary, who is contesting from DHaka-8 constituency. In a post on his verified Facebook account, he issued the warning, although he did not provide any details. It is thought that he is indicating his fellow NCP leader Nasiruddin won his own election in the Dhaka-8 constituency against BNP stalwart Mirza Abbas.   Hasnat, who also contested the Cumilla-4 seat, was elected to parliament through the election held on Thursday. Hasnat Abdullah, contesting under NCP's Shapla Koli symbol as part of an alliance with Jamaat e Islami, received 160,081 votes. His closest rival, Jasim Uddin, contesting with the Truck symbol, received 49,845 votes, in unofficial tallies from the Election Commission.

Independent candidate Atikul Alam Shawon has won the Cumilla-7 seat in the 13th national election by a wide margin. Shawon, contesting on the “Pitcher” symbol, received 90,819 votes, said Assistant Returning Officer and Chandina Upazila Nirbahi Officer Mohammad Ashraful Haque at 11:45pm on Thursday night. His closest rival, BNP-nominated candidate Dr. Redwan Ahmed, representing the “Sheaf of Paddy” symbol, obtained 47,925 votes. Other candidates included Maulana Solaiman Khan of Khelafat Majlish with 24,597 votes on the “Wall Clock” symbol, Maulana Ehteshamul Haq Qasemi of Islami Andolan Bangladesh with 14,080 votes on the “Hand Fan” symbol, and Sajol Kumar Kar of the Cultural Liberation Alliance with 259 votes on the “Stick” symbol. A total of 182,274 votes were cast in the constituency, representing 56.35 percent of the 329,166 registered voters. After 4,594 invalid votes, the number of valid votes stood at 177,680. The District Returning Officer, Mu. Reza Hasan, will announce the unofficial results of the elected MPs, including postal votes, on Friday.

Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) AMM Nasir Uddin on Thursday dismissed allegations of manipulation over voter turnout percentages released during the balloting process, saying such variations are natural as results from thousands of polling centres arrive at different times. "There were debates over the voter turnout percentage in the past (elections) as well. Please don’t question it now,” he said at a post-election briefing at 10pm on Thursday night. The CEC, however, didn’t release the overall voter turnout percentage at the briefing.  Addressing concerns raised over changes in reported vote percentages, he said questions often emerge immediately after results start coming in, with some people pointing out that the turnout or counting percentage stood at 8 percent at one point and rose to 20 percent a few hours later. Explaining the procedure, the CEC said results from more than 42,000 polling centres are received gradually and added cumulatively as they arrive at the Election Commission. “When results come from such a large number of centres at different times, there will naturally be variations in the overall percentage,” he said, adding that this does not indicate any irregularity. The CEC categorically denied any manipulation or hidden motive behind the changing figures. “There is no game of manipulation here and no other intention,” he said. “We are simply doing addition and calculation and announcing the cumulative results accordingly.” He also clarified that the Election Commission itself is not issuing any independent or unilateral results. “We do not want to give any ‘official’ result of our own,” the CEC said. According to him, the only results considered in the counting process are those sent directly from the field by the returning officers, duly signed and authenticated by them. “The results that the returning officers send from the field with their signatures are the ones we include in our calculation,” he said, stressing that the process is entirely transparent and based on official documentation from the grassroots level. The clarification comes amid ongoing public discussion and scrutiny over the pace and pattern of result updates as vote counting continues across the country. Earlier in the afternoon, EC Senior Secretary Akhtar Ahmed said some 47.91 percent of registered voters had cast their ballots by 2pm at 36,031 out of 42,651 polling centres across the country. He said the commission has yet to receive turnout data from 6,620 centres, he told reporters at the EC secretariat in the afternoon. The referendum and the 13th parliamentary election were held simultaneously from 7:30am to 4:30pm on Thursday in a festive and peaceful atmosphere in 299 out of 300 constituencies across the country.

BNP is confident of forming the next government with more than a two-thirds majority in the 13th national election, its Central Election Steering Committee spokesperson Mahdi Amin said on Thursday night. “Alhamdulillah, BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman has already been unofficially declared elected from two constituencies — Bogura-6 and Dhaka-17,” he told a press conference at the BNP Election Steering Committee office in Gulshan. Mahdi Amin alleged that since Wednesday night their political opponents had engaged in various irregularities, including vote rigging and unlawful occupation of polling centres. Despite this, he said, candidates contesting under the party’s electoral symbol, the ‘Sheaf of Paddy’, were leading by substantial margins in a large number of constituencies, with several already unofficially declared elected. “BNP, strengthened by the love and support of the people, will form the government by winning more than two-thirds of the seats, InshaAllah,” he said, adding that the party’s confidence was based on vote counts and detailed constituency-level data received so far. He alleged that incidents of irregularities, fraud and violence occurred in different parts of the country on polling day. He alleged that there were attempts at ‘election engineering’ in certain constituencies to favour specific candidates. Citing examples, he claimed, in Dhaka city, the counting of votes and announcement of results had been deliberately delayed in several constituencies, including Dhaka-8, Dhaka-11, Dhaka-13 and Dhaka-16. The BNP spokesperson also alleged that a particular political party had engaged in propaganda and violated the election code of conduct in an attempt to reduce the victory margins of BNP candidates, potentially affecting voter participation in some areas. Mahdi Amin congratulated voters across the country for casting their ballots and supporting their preferred candidates. Voting in Bangladesh’s national election concluded on Thursday in a largely peaceful atmosphere, with high hopes of restoring genuine democracy and securing a strong mandate for national reforms. Tarique Rahman wins both Dhaka-17, Bogura-6 seats The polling in Bangladesh began at 7:30am and continued until 4:30pm without interruption at 42,659 polling stations in 299 out of 300 constituencies, amid the deployment of nearly one million security personnel and another one million polling staff. Alongside the parliamentary election, voters also participated in a referendum to express their views through ‘Yes’ or ‘No’ votes on proposals for several constitutional amendments.

BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman has been unofficially declared elected from the Dhaka-17 and Bogura-6 constituencies in the country’s 13th national election. BNP Election Steering Committee spokesperson Dr Mahdi Amin shared the information at a press briefing on Thursday night. He, however, did not disclose the detailed vote counts. Meanwhile, BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, contesting with the party’s electoral symbol ‘Sheaf of Paddy’, secured victory in Thakurgaon-1. Voting in Bangladesh’s national election concluded on Thursday in a largely peaceful atmosphere, with high hopes of restoring genuine democracy and securing a strong mandate for national reforms. Want to run country with movement allies, if elected: Tarique The polling in Bangladesh began at 7:30am and continued until 4:30pm without interruption at 42,659 polling stations in 299 out of 300 constituencies, amid the deployment of nearly one million security personnel and another one million polling staff. Alongside the parliamentary election, voters also participated in a referendum to express their views through ‘Yes’ or ‘No’ votes on proposals for several constitutional amendments.

BNP leader Salahuddin Ahmed has taken a commanding lead in Cox’s Bazar-1 constituency. Unofficial results show Salahuddin has secured 102,110 votes in 74 out of 177 polling centres. His nearest rival, Jamaat-e-Islami candidate Abdullah Al Faruk received 45,073 votes in the same centres, said Chakaria Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Md Shaheen Delwar. BNP sweeps Thakurgaon as Fakhrul praises peaceful polls Cox’s Bazar-1 constituency comprises Chakaria and Pekua upazilas and has a total of 540,468 registered voters. Election officials said vote counting in the remaining centres is ongoing, and the figures are unofficial until the final results are declared.

BNP candidate Md Shariful Alam won by a massive margin after securing 185,813 votes in all 142 polling centres In Kishoreganj-6 (Bhairab-Kuliarchar) constituency, according to unofficial results.  His nearest rival, 11-party alliance candidate Maulana Ataullah Amin contesting with the ‘Rickshaw’ symbol, received 42,555 votes. Shariful Alam won the seat by a margin of 143,258 votes. Meanwhile, in Kishoreganj-4 (Itna-Mithamain-Austagram), BNP candidate Advocate Fazlur Rahman emerged victorious with 132,553 votes in all 150 polling centres. BNP’s Asaduzzaman unofficially wins Jhenaidah-1 by huge margin His closest competitor, Jamaat candidate Rokun Reza Sheikh, secured 55,646 votes. Election officials confirmed that the results were final as counting in all centres of the two constituencies has been completed.

Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin on Thursday said the referendum and 13th parliamentary election held on Thursday (February 12) could be considered very good by any standard in the history of the country’s elections. “If you judge it by any standard in the history of this country and its electoral history, it can be considered a very good election,” he said at a post-election briefing at 10:00pm on Thursday night at the city’s Nirbachan Bhaban. The CEC said his commission had successfully delivered to the nation a quite neutral and credible election in line with its commitment. “We have all been able to deliver to the nation the election with collective efforts. We are grateful to the Almighty. We believe that our efforts and works have been a success,” he said. Nasir Uddin said they had promised to present the nation a fully neutral and credible election amid a festive environment. “We believe that we’ve been able to do so,” he said. The referendum and the 13th parliamentary election were held on Thursday in a festive and peaceful atmosphere in 299 out of 300 constituencies across the country.

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has won all three of Thakurgaon’s three parliamentary constituencies in the 13th National Election. In Thakurgaon-1, the party's secretary general Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, contesting on the BNP’s  much-loved ‘Sheaf of Paddy’ symbol, secured victory. Dr. Abdus Salam, also representing the BNP on the ‘Sheaf of Paddy’ symbol, won the Thakurgaon-2 seat. In Thakurgaon-3, BNP candidate Zahidur Rahman, contesting with the same symbol, emerged victorious. Earlier, BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir praised the voting process, saying the election was “festive, peaceful and beautiful.” Festive atmosphere beyond anyone's imagination: Mirza Fakhrul Visiting over a hundred polling centres in the district, he said the people’s enthusiasm and participation were remarkable. There are 12,55,017 voters including 5,98,488 women and 6,70,022 men and 7 transgender voters in the district. Besides, 10,292 voters have registered to cast their ballots through postal voting, including 2,326 women and 7,966 men.

Jamaat-e-Islami candidates are leading in three of the four parliamentary constituencies in Kushtia district, while a BNP-backed candidate is ahead in one, according to unofficial results of the 13th national election. In Kushtia-1 (Daulatpur), former MP Reza Ahmed Bachchu Mollah of BNP is leading with 122,605 votes from 91 of 135 polling centres. His nearest rival, Md Belal Uddin of Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami, received 61,288 votes. In Kushtia-2 (Mirpur-Bheramara), Md Abdul Gafur of Jamaat-e-Islami secured 86,607 votes, ahead of BNP’s Barrister Ragib Rouf Chowdhury, who received 63,345 votes from 76 of 170 polling centres. In Kushtia-3 (Sadar), Jamaat-e-Islami’s Mufti Amir Hamza leads with 79,440 votes, while BNP’s Engineer Md Zakir Hossain Sarkar got 53,871 votes from 61 of 142 polling centres. In Kushtia-4 (Kumarkhali-Khoksa), Md Afzal Hossain of Jamaat-e-Islami received 31,592 votes, ahead of BNP’s Syed Mehedi Ahmed Rumi, who secured 25,132 votes from 31 of 152 polling centres. The results indicate a strong showing by Jamaat-e-Islami in the district, though the Election Commission has yet to officially announce the final outcomes. BNP’s Asaduzzaman unofficially wins Jhenaidah-1 by huge margin

In a welcome occurrence, not a single person was killed in election-related violence on polling day of the 13th Jatiya Sangshad election, that fell on Thursday. This is the first time since 1991 that polling day of a parliamentary or general election has passed without fatalities due to electoral violence. However at least seven people died in and around polling centres across the country during the election and referendum on Thursday - mostly of natural causes. One of them was polling officer Md Mujahidul Islam, 50, who died while performing his duties in Brahmanbaria. In Khulna, Mahibuzzaman Kochi, a former BNP leader, died following a scuffle at a polling centre. BNP leaders alleged he was pushed during an altercation, while Jamaat representatives denied the claim. Officials said the incident was not linked to electoral violence. The rest were all voters. Five of the victims reportedly fell ill while at or near polling centres in Dhaka, Chattogram, Gaibandha, Kishoreganj and Manikganj. In Dhaka, Ali Abu Sayeed Sarker, 53, collapsed at a polling centre in Jatrabari and was later declared dead at Dhaka Medical College Hospital. In Chattogram, 62-year-old Md Monu Mia fell sick at a centre in Kazir Dewri before breathing his last. Bangladesh Polls: Vote counting underway; early results show who’re leading In Gaibandha and Manikganj, two elderly voters—Bashed Ali and Babu Mia—collapsed after casting or attempting to cast their ballots, and were declared dead upon reaching hospital. In Bhairab of Kishoreganj, Razzak Mia, 67, fell sick and died after arriving at his designated polling centre to cast his vote.    

BNP candidate Khandakar Abdul Muktadir has taken a commanding lead in Sylhet-1 constituency while a close contest is underway in Sylhet-6. In Sylhet-1, results from 106 out of 215 polling centres show BNP-nominated candidate Khandakar Muktadir securing 95,276 votes, according to unofficial results. His nearest rival Jamaat-e-Islami candidate Maulana Habibur Rahman has received 62,510 votes so far. The current margin of lead stands at 32,766 votes, according to information obtained from candidates’ election agents and relevant offices. Sylhet-1 constituency comprises Sylhet Sadar upazila and Sylhet City Corporation areas. The total number of voters in the constituency is 680,946, including 353,186 male voters, 327,747 female voters and 13 third-gender voters. Meanwhile, in Sylhet-6 (Golapganj-Bianibazar), a neck-and-neck contest is taking place between the ‘Sheaf of Paddy’ and ‘Scales’ candidates. Out of 103 polling centres in the constituency, results from the first 50 centres have been announced. According to the declared results, BNP candidate Emran Ahmed Chowdhury has secured 32,822 votes, while Jamaat-e-Islami candidate Md Selim Uddin has received 27,130 votes. The current margin between the two candidates is 5,692 votes.

Joint forces on Thursday detained a BNP leader from Babuganj upazila in Barishal-3 constituency over his alleged involvement in an attack on AB Party leader Barrister Asaduzzaman Fuad last year. The detainee, Rajon Sikder, is the general secretary of Rahmatpur union BNP. He was picked up around 3pm from in front of a degree college in the upazila, local sources said. Rajon is accused of leading the December 7 attack on Fuad, an AB Party candidate backed by an 11-party alliance in the Barishal-3 (Babuganj-Muladi) seat. Witnesses said Rajon went to Rajkar Secondary School polling centre when an army vehicle arrived and detained him. His family members later gathered and stood in front of the vehicle in protest. Barishal Deputy Commissioner and Returning Officer Khairul Alam Sumon reached the spot as law enforcers brought the situation under control by charging batons. Rajon was later taken towards Babuganj upazila headquarters. According to sources, Fuad had alleged that local people demanded extortion money from a bridge contractor following the foundation stone laying of Mirganj Bridge. A viral video showed Rajon leading those who surrounded and harassed him. Police said Rajon had not yet been handed over to them.

The Election Commission on Thursday expressed its gratitude to political parties, candidates, law enforcement personnel, government and private officials on election duty, observers, media workers, voters and the people of Bangladesh for their overall cooperation in making the referendum and the 13th national election free, fair, impartial and festive. In a press release, the commission also urged all concerned to arrange special prayers at mosques after Friday’s Juma prayers for the country’s peace, prosperity and development. EC to take strict action if evidence of vote buying is found It further requested other places of worship to hold special prayers at convenient times for the same purpose. Voting in Bangladesh’s national election concluded on Thursday in a largely peaceful atmosphere, with high hopes of restoring genuine democracy and securing a strong mandate for national reforms. The polling began at 7:30am and continued until 4:30pm without interruption at 42,659 polling stations in 299 out of 300 constituencies, amid the deployment of nearly one million security personnel and another one million polling staff. Alongside the parliamentary election, voters also participated in a referendum to express their views through ‘Yes’ or ‘No’ votes on proposals for several constitutional amendments. Hidden cameras on police, drones deployed to prevent chaos: EC

For the first time in independent Bangladesh, women voters in Rupsha South Union of Faridganj, an upazila in Chandpur district, cast their ballots in the 13th Jatiya Sangshad elections on Thursday, defying a long-standing restriction based on their strict interpretation of Islam, that discourages womebn from going to polling centres. Indeed, women were seen standing in long queues from early morning to exercise their right to franchise in the national election at South Char Mandari Government Primary School polling centre. Mahifuler Nessa, 90-year-old voter, clad in a burqa, said, “This is the first time in my life that I have voted.” Several other women in the queue echoed the same sentiment, saying they were voting for the first time. Officials said voting was taking longer than usual, as many women were actually unfamiliar with the process, having abstained from elections for over five decades. With two ballot papers this time, many needed assistance understanding where to stamp, how to fold the ballots and how to cast them properly. Local people said a religious directive issued around 54 years ago by a Pir (religious leader) had discouraged women from leaving their homes or participating in voting in order to maintain religious sentiment. Since then, women in the union largely refrained from taking part in national and local government elections. However, special counselling and encouragement from local administration, along with local representatives, motivated women to participate this time, several male voters said.  

BNP-backed candidate and former Attorney General Md Asaduzzaman was unofficially declared elected from the Jhenaidah-1 constituency in the 13th national election. According to unofficial results, Asaduzzaman secured 171,598 votes, while his nearest rival Jamaat-nominated candidate Matiur Rahman received 55,577 votes. Rathindranath Roy, Deputy Director of the Local Government Department (DDLG) at the Jhenaidah District Commissioner’s Office, said this information was collected at the field level. The result will be officially announced after the signed result sheets arrive. Voting in Bangladesh’s national election concluded on Thursday in a largely peaceful atmosphere, with high hopes of restoring genuine democracy and securing a strong mandate for national reforms. The polling in Bangladesh began at 7:30am and continued until 4:30pm without interruption at 42,659 polling stations in 299 out of 300 constituencies, amid the deployment of nearly one million security personnel and another one million polling staff. Alongside the parliamentary election, voters also participated in a referendum to express their views through ‘Yes’ or ‘No’ votes on proposals for several constitutional amendments.

Pakistan’s Supreme Court has ordered an urgent medical review of jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan after a court-appointed lawyer reported that he has lost most of the vision in his right eye. Barrister Salman Safdar, appointed as amicus curiae (friend of the court), met Khan for about two hours on February 10 at Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi and later submitted a seven-page report to the court on Wednesday. According to the report, the 73-year-old former premier now has only 15 percent vision in his right eye after authorities allegedly failed to act on his complaints of blurred and hazy sight for nearly three months. Safdar wrote that Khan eventually suffered a sudden and complete loss of vision in that eye. A medical report dated February 6 diagnosed him with right central retinal vein occlusion, a condition caused by a blood clot that can seriously damage the retina. An eye specialist from a government hospital in Islamabad confirmed the diagnosis. Safdar noted that Khan appeared distressed during their meeting, with watery eyes throughout the conversation. The report warned that any further delay in treatment could pose serious risks and recommended an immediate independent examination by specialist ophthalmologists, including his personal doctors. Following the submission, the Supreme Court directed authorities to form a medical board to examine Khan and ordered that he be allowed to speak by phone with his sons, who live in the United Kingdom. The court asked that both steps be completed before February 16, with Chief Justice Yahya Afridi stressing that Khan’s health required urgent attention. Khan’s party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), expressed deep concern over his deteriorating eyesight and criticised prison authorities. The party said it may pursue legal action against officials and demanded unrestricted access to his personal physicians, transfer to a reputable hospital for specialised treatment, and restoration of full family visitation rights. Khan, a former cricket captain who led Pakistan to a World Cup victory, served as prime minister from 2018 until he was removed in a no-confidence vote in 2022. He has been jailed since August 2023 on multiple charges, which his party describes as politically motivated. Safdar’s report also stated that Khan has been held in solitary confinement for about two years and four months and has had limited access to his legal team and family members. In June 2024, a United Nations Working Group on Arbitrary Detention said his detention lacked legal basis and appeared aimed at barring him from political office. The case has further intensified political tensions in Pakistan, with analysts calling for transparency regarding the former prime minister’s health and prison conditions.   With inputs from ALJAZEERA

Iran’s security chief Ali Larijani has accused Israel of trying to derail ongoing nuclear negotiations between Tehran and Washington in order to trigger conflict in the region. Speaking to Al Jazeera during a visit to Qatar, Larijani said Iran is negotiating only with the United States and not with Israel. He alleged that Israel is attempting to interfere in the process and undermine talks that are at a sensitive stage. Larijani claimed Israel wants to destabilise the region and is using Iran as a pretext. He also referred to previous Israeli actions in the region as part of a broader strategy to create tension. His remarks came as Iran and the US recently held indirect talks in Oman aimed at resolving disputes over Tehran’s nuclear programme. A second round of negotiations is under discussion. Larijani said there is common ground between the two sides on the issue of Iran not developing nuclear weapons, which Tehran insists it is not pursuing. However, he stressed that Iran’s missile programme and uranium enrichment levels are not open for negotiation. He warned that Iran would respond if the US carried out any military strike against it. During his visit to Doha, Larijani also met Hamas officials to discuss regional developments.   With inputs from ALJAZEERA

Preliminary results from 12 out of 185 polling stations in Thakurgaon-1 (Sadar) constituency show BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir leading. He has secured 12536 votes so far. His nearest rival, Jamaat’s candidate Delwar Hossain, has received 9,359 votes. Counting is underway, and the results from the remaining polling stations are awaited. ‘Perhaps my last vote,’ says octogenarian voter in Faridpur In Thakurgaon-2 constituency, results from 18 out of 104 polling stations have been reported so far, showing Dr. Abdus Salam of the BNP, symbol Sheaf of Paddy), leading with 21,636 votes. Maulana Abdul Hakim of Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami has secured 18,944 votes in these early returns. Preliminary results from Gazipur-3 and Manikganj-3 constituencies show the BNP’s ‘Sheaf of Paddy’ candidates taking early leads as counting continues. In Gazipur-3, results from 10 out of 180 polling centres show the BNP candidate (Sheaf of Paddy) securing 8,462 votes, while the ‘Rickshaw’ symbol candidate has received 6,110 votes so far. Election officials said counting in the remaining 170 centres is underway.  Meanwhile, in Manikganj-3 (Constituency No. 170), results from 38 out of 151 centres indicate a significant lead for BNP candidate Afroza Khanam Rita (Sheaf of Paddy), who has secured 41,149 votes. Her rival Sayed Noor of Bangladesh Khelafat Majlish (Rickshaw) has received 16,799 votes, while independent candidate Ataur Rahman Ata (Football) has obtained 3,853 votes. Returning officers said the figures are unofficial and partial, and the final outcome will be declared after completion of vote counting in all centres. Vote counting underway; Chief Adviser thanks nation for peaceful election, referendum

US Attorney General Pam Bondi faced tough questions from lawmakers on Wednesday over the handling of files related to the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein during a heated House Judiciary Committee hearing. Bondi defended the Justice Department’s release of millions of documents, saying officials tried to protect victims’ identities and that any errors were immediately corrected. Several Epstein survivors attended the hearing and criticized the department for mishandling redactions. Lawmakers, including Republicans, pressed Bondi over the removal of certain names from the files, including billionaire Les Wexner. Bondi said some questions were “theatrics” and that officials were following legal timelines for the release. FBI Director Kash Patel said there was no evidence Epstein trafficked women to Wexner. California Democrat Ted Lieu raised the case of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, whose images appear in the files. Bondi suggested Lieu take the matter up with former Attorney General Merrick Garland. Lawmakers also questioned Bondi on federal immigration agents’ fatal shootings in Minneapolis. Bondi defended the federal response, saying protests had been incited by elected officials opposing law enforcement.   With inputs from BBC

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has reportedly chosen his daughter, Kim Ju Ae, as his official heir, South Korea’s National Intelligence Service (NIS) told lawmakers on Thursday. Ju Ae, believed to be 13, has recently appeared alongside her father at major events, including a visit to Beijing in September, her first known trip abroad. The NIS said her increasing public presence and involvement in state events indicate she is now in the stage of “successor designation.” Lawmakers said Ju Ae has attended events like the founding anniversary of the Korean People’s Army and visited the Kumsusan Palace of the Sun. She is also believed to have begun providing input on some state policies, showing her growing role in leadership. Ju Ae is Kim Jong Un’s only publicly acknowledged child. The NIS believes he may have an older son, but he has never been shown in state media. Ju Ae first appeared on North Korean television in 2022 while inspecting a missile system with her father. Her public appearances are seen as symbolic, showing her positioned prominently alongside Kim Jong Un. Analysts note that her selection as heir is unusual in North Korea’s patriarchal society, though female leaders like Kim Yo Jong provide some precedent. It remains unclear why Kim Jong Un, who is still young and reportedly healthy, has named a 13-year-old as heir, or what changes her succession may bring to the country’s policies and direction.   With inputs from BBC

At an age when most memories blur and movements slow to a shuffle, Swarna Begum still remembers one thing clearly: her vote matters. Bent with age and her eyesight nearly gone, the 120-year-old from Jamjami village under Bhojgati union in Manirampur upazila arrived at her local polling station on Thursday morning, leaning on a walking stick and supported by her relatives. Each step seemed laboured, but her resolve was unmistakable. Despite her frailty, Swarna Begum was determined to cast her ballot in the election. For her, voting is not just a constitutional right — it is a lifelong responsibility. Her arrival at the polling centre quickly drew attention. Fellow voters paused. Election officials looked on with quiet admiration. Some gathered nearby, witnessing what many described as a rare and deeply moving moment. “She insisted on coming,” a family member said. “Even though she has been physically weak for years, she believes voting is a sacred duty. She said as long as she is alive, she will try to vote.” Local residents said her presence sent a powerful message, particularly to younger generations. “At this age, if she can come to vote, what excuse do we have?” said one voter standing outside the centre. “Her love for the country is greater than her physical limitations.” Many believe her determination reflects a deeper attachment to the democratic process — a faith built over decades of witnessing the country’s political evolution. Thursday’s voting concluded in a largely peaceful atmosphere across the country, with polling held from 7:30am to 4:30pm at 42,659 polling stations in 299 constituencies. 100 jail inmates cast postal votes in Jashore Nearly one million security personnel and an equal number of polling officials were deployed to ensure smooth conduct of the election. Alongside electing their parliamentary representatives, voters also took part in a referendum, casting ‘Yes’ or ‘No’ ballots on proposals for several constitutional amendments.

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Thursday said the country is set to have an elected government and parliament through the ongoing national election. “None had imagined the voting would be so festive. The enthusiasm and interest of the people are remarkable. I have visited around a hundred polling centres throughout the day. The election has been held very peacefully and beautifully,” he told reporters while visiting Thakurgaon Government Boys’ High School polling centre on Thursday afternoon. Expressing optimism about the outcome, Fakhrul said he believes the results will be positive. “This year, the people will get an elected government and parliament — something we have struggled for over the past 16 years,” he said. He also stated that he is quite optimistic about winning the election. According to the sources, a total of 20 candidates, including two women, are contesting in the three parliamentary constituencies of Thakurgaon district. Mirza Fakhrul casts his vote Among them, three candidates are contesting in Thakurgaon-1, seven in Thakurgaon-2 and ten in Thakurgaon-3. There are 12,55,017 voters including 5,98,488 women and 6,70,022 men and seven transgender voters in the district. Besides, 10,292 voters have registered to cast their ballots through postal voting, including 2,326 women and 7,966 men.

Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr Shafiqur Rahman has called on party leaders and activists to remain at polling stations until the complete results are officially announced. The Jamaat Ameer made the call in a Facebook post in the evening. In another post, he wrote that if Allah grants victory to the oppressed, there will be no processions, no slogans, and no celebrations — instead, they will all fall in prostration (sehannnnne “We will thank Allah Almighty with all our hearts and seek the special help of the Great Lord in serving the nation,” he said. Voting in Bangladesh’s national election concluded on Thursday in a largely peaceful atmosphere, with high hopes of restoring genuine democracy and securing a strong mandate for national reforms. Govt must belong to 18 crore people, not to any individual or party: Jamaat Ameer The polling began at 7:30am and continued until 4:30pm without interruption at 42,659 polling stations in 299 out of 300 constituencies, amid the deployment of nearly one million security personnel and another one million polling staff. Alongside the parliamentary election, voters also participated in a referendum to express their views through ‘Yes’ or ‘No’ votes on proposals for several constitutional amendments.

Claiming that its victory is inevitable, the BNP on Thursday urged party leaders and activists to remain vigilant until the final election results are announced. Speaking at a press conference, BNP’s Election Steering Committee spokesperson Dr Mahdi Amin also thanked the government, administration and Election Commission for performing their duty properly in holding the national election and referendum. “BNP’s victory is inevitable and absolute, and no attempt to undermine it will succeed. We firmly believe that the surge of the sheaf of paddy symbolises the victory of BNP and of democracy. The victory of Bangladesh is imminent, Insha’Allah,” Mahdi told the press conference at the party’s Gulshan election office following the vote closing. Any attempt to thwart elections to face mass resistance: BNP Mahdi Amin said the people of the country exercised their voting rights with deep emotion and aspiration, expressing hope that, in a democratic Bangladesh, the government elected by people’s mandate would sincerely uphold those expectations. “I earnestly call upon the pro-democracy people to remain vigilant to ensure the voting results,” Mahdi said. Those from BNP and its associate and affiliated organisations who are involved in election steering activities must ensure that there are no irregularities in the proper counting of votes and the announcement of results,” he told the press conference at BNP’s Gulshan election office,” he said. He thanked the Election Commission, the armed forces, the interim government and law enforcement agencies, along with all others involved in conducting the 13th national parliamentary election and referendum. Expressing sympathy for those injured and condolences for those killed in election-related violence, Mahdi conveyed BNP’s solidarity with the affected families. The BNP leader alleged that violence, irregularities and the use of black money had taken place in different areas since the previous night in an attempt to make the election controversial. He, however, said security personnel played an important role and the public also demonstrated unity in resistance. Mahdi also alleged that violations of the electoral code of conduct were aimed at offsetting what he described as a visible and large gap between BNP and its rival political party, claiming that voters were threatened and discouraged from going to polling centres. “Without such incidents, voter turnout could have been higher.” Tarique Rahman confident of BNP's win in landmark election He said pre-stamped ballot papers and fake votes were found in many places and that some people could not cast their own votes, which he described as a return to undemocratic practices of the past. Mahdi claimed that attempts were made to create mobs through so-called local fake observers, which hindered voter presence, adding that the Election Commission had been informed earlier. “Although the commission took some steps in certain cases, more sincere and comprehensive measures could have prevented the situation.” The BNP spokesperson also accused a particular political party of using social media in a way that created fear among voters regarding casting their ballots.

Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus on Thursday called upon political parties and candidates to uphold democratic values, tolerance, and mutual respect even after the announcement of the final results. “There will always be differences of opinion, but we must remain united in the greater national interest,” he said in a statement. Prof Yunus said Bangladesh has once again demonstrated that the people are the ultimate source of power. Flawed, violent polls invite destruction, benefit no one: Prof Yunus tells parties “Together, we will move forward to build an accountable, inclusive, and just state,” he added. Describing the election as a moment of great pride and celebration, the Chief Adviser said it marks the beginning of an unprecedented new chapter in the journey of a renewed Bangladesh. He said the just-concluded twin elections were the most peaceful and festive in the country’s history, expressing hope that democracy would reach new heights of excellence if this positive momentum is sustained. “Let us continue working together to further strengthen our democratic foundations,” he said as voting concluded. The interim government extended its sincere congratulations and gratitude to the entire nation for ensuring a peaceful, orderly, and celebratory atmosphere during the 13th National Election and the referendum on the implementation of the July National Charter. After casting his vote, Prof Yunus said the enthusiastic participation of voters, the responsible conduct of political parties, the restraint shown by candidates, and the professionalism of all election-related institutions collectively reflect the nation’s unwavering commitment to democracy. By exercising their constitutional rights, he said, the people have played an active and decisive role in shaping the country’s future. “I extend my special thanks to the Election Commission, law enforcement agencies, the armed forces, the administration, observer teams, media personnel, and all officials and staff involved in conducting the polls,” he said. Prof Yunus said this landmark democratic exercise was successfully completed due to their dedication, discipline, and tireless efforts. It feels like Eid, creating a new Bangladesh: Prof Yunus

Government Jamila Ainul Ananda School and College, a familiar academic landmark of Khiljee Road under Mohammadpur, took on a different identity on election day—emerging as a vibrant civic space, like most polling centres across the country, where democracy was not only practiced, but joyfully celebrated. From the first light of dawn, voters began arriving in steady streams, transforming the school premises into a bustling mosaic of colours, conversations and collective anticipation.  For many, the experience felt deeply nostalgic, evoking memories of elections long past—especially the 2008 polls, often recalled as the last time voting felt like a true public festival. “This is the first time in many years that I came to a polling centre without fear in my heart,” said Nasrullah, a 50-year-old voter, standing patiently in line. “People are talking freely again. This reminds me of the old days.” The school grounds and outside the boundary wall echoed with laughter, greetings and spirited debate as voters encircled the polling centre, engaging in animated chit-chat—about candidates, national issues, local concerns and even family matters.  Tea stalls and makeshift vendors near the gate added to the ambience, while voters exchanged pleasantries as if attending a community gathering rather than a high-stakes political exercise. Unlike previous elections marked by silence, tension or indifference, this polling day carried an unmistakable air of ease.  Elderly voters shared stories of past ballots, young voters discussed hopes for the future, and women voters—many accompanied by family members—said they felt encouraged by the calm and welcoming environment. “I brought my daughter with me so she can see what voting looks like,” said Shirin Akter, a homemaker casting her vote for the first time in over a decade. “I want her to remember this day—not as something frightening, but as something joyful.” Voting kicks off smoothly at centres across Bangladesh The queue at Government Jamila Ainul Ananda School and College although was not very long but moved steadily, yet no one seemed in a hurry. Voters lingered even after casting their ballots, exchanging smiles, handshakes and casual conversations.  Some first-time voters posed for photographs, selfies near the school gate, marking the moment as a personal milestone. “This is my first vote,” said college student Syedullah , excitement evident in his voice. “I had heard stories from my parents about how elections used to feel. Today, I finally understand what they meant.” For many, the significance of the day went beyond the ballot itself. It was about reclaiming a civic space that had gradually shrunk over the years—a space for expression, debate and participation. “There was a time when people stopped discussing politics openly,” said Rehana Begum, a home make lived in Khiljee Road. “Today, we are talking again. That itself is a victory.” Election officials stationed at the centre noted that voter turnout remained more or less satisfactory throughout the morning and afternoon.  Security arrangements were visible yet unobtrusive, allowing voters to move freely while maintaining order. Observers described the environment as “calm, participatory and dignified.” “The mood here is different,” said one polling officer. “People are relaxed. They are asking questions before entering the polling center to make sure only the genuine voters can enter, helping each other and respecting the process.” The physical setting of Government Jamila Ainul Ananda School and College played a subtle yet powerful role in shaping the day’s atmosphere. Classrooms converted into polling booths, corridors lined with voters, and the familiar schoolyard buzzing with civic energy lent the event a deep sense of  community. Women voters turned out in noticeable numbers, many saying they felt safer and more confident than in previous elections. Some arrived in groups, chatting and laughing as they waited their turn. “I feel proud today,” said Nasima Khatun, a private college teacher. “We are standing in line, young and old. This is how it should be.” Political analysts observing the polling centre said the atmosphere reflected a renewed public interest in democratic participation, especially among those who had grown disillusioned over the years. As the day progressed, the festive mood remained intact. Voters continued to gather around the centre, some discussing policy priorities, others sharing jokes or reminiscing about elections gone by.  Women flock to Dhaka polling centres as voting progresses The absence of visible tension was, for many, the most striking feature of the day. “For a long time, election day felt like a day to stay indoors,” said shopkeeper Mizanur Rahman. “Today, people are out again. That change is important.” The sense of collective enjoyment did not dilute the seriousness of the moment. Many voters spoke earnestly about their hopes—better governance, accountability, stability and opportunities for the next generation. “I voted for my grandchildren,” said 70-year-old Amina Begum. “I may not see all the changes, but I want them to grow up in a country where voting matters.” As the afternoon sun cast long shadows across the schoolyard, the hum of conversation persisted—a gentle reminder that democracy, at its best, is as much about people as it is about power. Abul Khair Masud, a pharmacy shop owner, who came to cast his vote along with other three family members was seen very joyful. “I am excited, came here to cast vote after 2014, 2018 and 2024 elections with my wife and daughters, we are all very much eager to cast votes,” he said. The rival parties' supporters were also seen exchanging greetings and pleasantries that were very much absent in the last elections of the country.       For a generation that has waited nearly two decades to feel such an election-day spirit, Government Jamila Ainul Ananda School and College stood not merely as a polling centre, but as a living symbol of democracy rediscovered—where ballots were cast, voices were heard, and a long-absent festival quietly returned.

Vote counting is underway across the country after the completion of polling in a largely peaceful atmosphere, with high hopes of restoring genuine democracy and securing a strong mandate for national reforms. Polling started simultaneously at 7:30am in 299 parliamentary constituencies across the country and continued uninterrupted until 4:30pm on Thursday. Voters who were in queues at the closing time would be allowed to cast their ballots. Apart from a few isolated incidents, including crude bomb explosions in Munshiganj and Gopalganj districts, the overall voting process remained largely peaceful. During the election, four people died reportedly after falling sick at polling centres in Khulna, Manikganj, Dhaka and Chattogram . Some political parties also raised allegations of irregularities. Seven presiding officers were withdrawn in five districts for their alleged irregularities, according to reports landed at UNB desk from the districts. In a statement issued after voting ended, Chief Adviser congratulated and thanked the nation for the peaceful completion of the election and the referendum, according to the press wing of the Chief Adviser. “Voters’ spontaneous participation, the responsible conduct of political parties, the restraint shown by candidates and the professionalism of all institutions involved in the election have collectively demonstrated that our commitment to democracy remains firm. By exercising their constitutional rights,  people have played an active role in determining the country’s future,” Prof Yunus said. He extended special thanks to the Election Commission, the armed forces, law enforcement agencies, the civil administration, observer teams, media professionals and all officials and staff engaged in the voting process. Polling concludes in largely peaceful atmosphere across Bangladesh “Their dedication and hard work ensured the successful completion of this massive democratic exercise,” he added. The Chief Adviser also urged political parties and candidates to uphold democratic decorum, tolerance and mutual respect even after the announcement of the final results. According to Election Commission (EC) data, the voter turnout nationwide was 47.91 percent by 2:00pm, midway through the nine-hour balloting for the parliamentary election and referendum. “We’ve gathered data from 32,789 out of 42,651 polling stations. According to this data, voter turnout stands at 32.88 percent,” said EC Senior Secretary Akhtar Ahmed while briefing reporters at 1:10pm at the city’s Nirbachan Bhaban. Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus cast his vote at the Gulshan Model School and College centre in Dhaka. BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman voted at the same centre around 9:40am, while Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr Shafiqur Rahman cast his ballot at 8:15am at Monipur High School (Boys’ Branch). BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir voted at Thakurgaon Government Girls’ High School around 7:40am. The election in Sherpur-3 constituency was postponed due to the death of a contesting candidate. Voters cast ballots to choose 299 public representatives from a total of 2,028 candidates, including nominees of 50 political parties and independent contenders. A total of 127,298,522 voters in 299 constituencies were eligible to vote, comprising 64,620,077 male voters, 62,677,232 female voters, and 1,213 third-gender voters. The country’s total electorate across 300 constituencies is 127,711,899. Two major political parties—the BNP and Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami—are contesting the election, seeking a public mandate to govern for the next five years. The ousted Awami League, however, is absent from the race this time, having boycotted the 15th February 1996 election after 30 years in the political arena. Of the 59 registered political parties, 50 are participating in the elections. Among the 2,028 candidates contesting from 299 constituencies, 1,755 were nominated by political parties, while 273 are independent candidates.

Four election officials were withdrawn from duty in Mymensingh and Naogaon on Thursday following allegations of irregularities during voting. In Mymensingh’s Bhaluka upazila, an assistant presiding officer and two polling officers were dismissed at Kansherkul High School centre over allegations of allowing open voting and forcing out agents of rival candidates. Confirming the matter, Bhaluka Upazila Nirbahi Officer and Assistant Returning Officer Firoz Hossain said an assistant presiding officer and two polling officers were removed for “not preventing open voting.” Come out and vote without fear: Army Chief Waker-Uz-Zaman At Birunia Dakhil Madrasa centre in the same upazila, several youth were found sitting inside booths posing as agents without proper identification. Their ID cards carried only the presiding officer’s signature, without names or candidate details. Presiding Officer Mujibur Rahman said, “I was feeling unwell and did not notice the matter.” He later asked them to write their respective symbols in front of journalists. Speaking on condition of anonymity, some alleged that supporters of the “Dhaner Shish” candidate had driven out rival agents and taken their places with the presiding officer’s support. In Naogaon, Presiding Officer Nazim Uddin of Katkhoir High School centre in Sadar upazila was withdrawn around 1:30pm for allegedly signing and sealing the result sheet before vote counting and announcement. “There is no provision to sign the result sheet before counting,” said Assistant Returning Officer and Sadar UNO Mohammad Ibnul Abedin. He said Mukatadul Hasan, a senior officer of Rajshahi Krishi Unnayan Bank, took charge around 3pm. Nazim Uddin has been brought to the UNO office and further action will be taken after review. 47.91% voter turnout by 2pm: EC Secretary

Miscreants snatched away ballot paper after exploding crude bombs at a polling centre under Bhola-1 (Sadar) constituency in Sadar upazila of Bhola district on Thursday, forcing authorities to suspend votes for nearly one and a half hours. Omar Faruk, Presiding Officer of Alinagar School and College polling centre in Sadar upazila said a group of people entered the centre after setting off crude bombs around 12:15pm. Later, they beat up polling officials and snatched away 56 ballot papers and stamped 76 others irregularly. ‘Perhaps my last vote,’ says octogenarian voter in Faridpur Voting process was suspended for about one and half an hour due to the incident. Sadar Upazila Nirbahi Officer Arifuzzaman along with police rushed to the spot and brought the situation under control. Police also arrested an activist of Jamaat-e-Islami from the spot.

Dhaka, Feb 12 (UNB) - Senior Secretary of the Election Commission Akhtar Ahmed on Thursday said that 47.91 percent of registered voters had cast their ballots by 2pm at 36,031 out of 42,651 polling centres across the country. He said the commission has yet to receive turnout data from 6,620 centres, he told reporters at the EC secretariat in the afternoon. Bangladesh Polls: EC reports about 33% turnout by noon Responding to a claim by Jamaat regarding suspension of voting in nearly a hundred centres in three constituencies, the EC Secretary said there was a scope to halt the voting if the allegations had been proven. Akhtar Ahmed said there has so far been no major problem in the overall election situation. About his visits to two polling centres earlier in the day, he said officials there informed him that the flow of voters was slow until noon. “When we were returning, we noticed that the flow was increasing,” he said.

Voting in Bangladesh’s national election concluded on Thursday in a largely peaceful atmosphere, with high hopes of restoring genuine democracy and securing a strong mandate for national reforms. The polling began at 7:30am and continued until 4:30pm without interruption at 42,659 polling stations in 299 out of 300 constituencies, amid the deployment of nearly one million security personnel and another one million polling staff. Alongside the parliamentary election, voters also participated in a referendum to express their views through ‘Yes’ or ‘No’ votes on proposals for several constitutional amendments. In the capital, voters began arriving at polling centres early in the morning. As the day progressed, voter presence steadily increased, creating an atmosphere of festivity among those casting their ballots. According to Election Commission (EC) data, the voter turnout nationwide was 47.91 percent by 2:00pm, midway through the nine-hour balloting for the parliamentary election and referendum. “We’ve gathered data from 32,789 out of 42,651 polling stations. According to this data, voter turnout stands at 32.88 percent,” said EC Senior Secretary Akhtar Ahmed while briefing reporters at 1:10pm at the city’s Nirbachan Bhaban. Bangladesh Polls: EC reports about 33% turnout by noon Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus cast his vote at the Gulshan Model School and College centre in Dhaka. BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman voted at the same centre around 9:40am, while Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr Shafiqur Rahman cast his ballot at 8:15am at Monipur High School (Boys’ Branch). BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir voted at Thakurgaon Government Girls’ High School around 7:40am. The election in Sherpur-3 constituency was postponed due to the death of a contesting candidate. Voters cast ballots to choose 299 public representatives from a total of 2,028 candidates, including nominees of 50 political parties and independent contenders. A total of 127,298,522 voters in 299 constituencies were eligible to vote, comprising 64,620,077 male voters, 62,677,232 female voters, and 1,213 third-gender voters. The country’s total electorate across 300 constituencies is 127,711,899. Two major political parties—the BNP and Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami—are contesting the election, seeking a public mandate to govern for the next five years. The ousted Awami League, however, is absent from the race this time, having boycotted the 15th February 1996 election after 30 years in the political arena. Of the 59 registered political parties, 50 are participating in the elections. Among the 2,028 candidates contesting from 299 constituencies, 1,755 were nominated by political parties, while 273 are independent candidates.

Miscreants blasted several crude bombs in phases near Makhati Gurucharan High School polling centre in Sadar upazila of Munshiganj on Thursday, triggering panic among voters. Five people were arrested in connection with the incident. The arrestees are Rahmat Majhi, 42, Parvez Majhi, 27, Md Kamal, 37, Arshad Majhi and Salim Majhi. The first explosion occurred around 10:15am, prompting law enforcers to heighten security in the area. 5 arrested in Dhaka for breaching election code; awarded jail terms, fines Two more explosions took place around noon, further alarming voters and locals. Army personnel stationed nearby rushed to the spot and after chasing the suspects and arrested five people from the area. Presiding Officer Md Titumir said voting at the centre resumed around 10:15am and continued afterwards. The explosions caused panic, and the main gate of the polling centre was closed for seven to eight minutes. It was reopened after additional law enforcers arrived. Police later recovered an unexploded crude bomb from the scene. Returning Officer and Deputy Commissioner Syeda Nurmahal Ashrafi and Superintendent of Police Md Menhajul Alam visited the spot. Officer-in-Charge of Sadar Police Station Momin Ali said security at the centre has been strengthened. No limit on carrying cash unless directed by EC, clarifies Bangladesh Bank

Syeda Iqbal Mand Banu, mother of Dr Zubaida Rahman, cast her vote at the City College polling centre in Dhaka-10 on Thursday. Earlier in the day, Zubaida voted at Gulshan Model High School and College centre in Gulshan-2 along with her husband BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman and their daughter Zaima Rahman. After casting her vote, Zubaida went to her mother’s residence in Dhanmondi and accompanied her to the City College centre. On arrival, Iqbal Mand Banu was helped out of the vehicle and taken to the polling booth in a wheelchair. Zubaida waited in a car on the ground floor of the centre during the process. Many voters exchanged greetings with her from a distance within the security cordon, and some also took photographs. Around 2:10pm, after her mother cast her vote, Zubaida helped her back into the car. She later left the centre in a separate vehicle. During her stay at the centre, BNP-nominated candidate for Dhaka-10 Sheikh Robiul Alam and some party leaders and activists were present.

Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus on Thursday expressed optimism about Bangladesh’s future, describing the atmosphere surrounding the twin elections as festive and historic, saying it feels like Eid as the nation embarks on building a new Bangladesh. “It is like Eid....fantastic. A big future is coming up (lies ahead of us). We are creating a new Bangladesh,” Prof Yunus said, terming the national election and referendum a historic opportunity to reshape the country’s destiny. Casting his ballot, he said the moment marked one of the greatest joys of his life and symbolised a decisive break from the past. “Today, a new Bangladesh is born,” he said. At every step, Prof Yunus said, they have the opportunity to build a new Bangladesh. "Let us celebrate the birthday of Bangladesh today. Let the whole nation celebrate this festival throughout the day.” The Chief Adviser cast his vote at the Gulshan Model School and College polling centre in the capital. “It is a day of immense happiness in my life. It is also a day of great joy and liberation for the people of Bangladesh,” he added. Referring to the ongoing electoral process, Prof Yunus said it signifies the end of the past and the beginning of a renewed national framework grounded in hope and reform. He said people across the country are observing the day in a celebratory mood, embracing it as a national festival. After casting his vote, the Chief Adviser visited Badda High School polling centre and another centre in Mirpur to inspect the election environment. During the visits, he spoke with voters and election officials. ‘Today, a new Bangladesh is born,’ Prof Adviser Yunus Prof Yunus also monitored the nationwide voting situation from the control room at Police Headquarters. Home Affairs Adviser Md. Jahangir Alam Chowdhury and Inspector General of Police (IGP) Baharul Alam were present. Later, he observed the overall voting situation from the temporary observation room set up at the State Guest House Jamuna.

BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman on Thursday said his party wants to run the country with all those parties that participated with them in the movement. “We want to run the country more or less with those with whom we carried out the movement,” he said while talking to reporters in front of BNP’s Gulshan office after visiting some polling centres in the capital. He expressed confidence that his party will win the historic election. Tarique expressed satisfaction over voter turnout and voiced optimism about his party’s victory. Earlier in the day, Tarique visited polling centres in Dhaka Cantonment’s Adamjee Cantonment Public School and College, Mohakhali, Panthapath, Bhashantek, Manik Mia Avenue, Road 27 in Dhanmondi, Sohanbagh and Banani’s Bidya Niketan area. Zubaida’s mother casts vote at City College in Dhaka-10 “From what I have seen in Dhaka city, Alhamdulillah, people are going to cast their votes with great enthusiasm,” he said. He added that over the past two days he had observed people travelling back to their hometowns by launch, steamer, train and bus to vote. “We expect that this enthusiasm will continue throughout the day, Inshallah,” he said. Asked how many seats they expect to win, Tarique said, “We are optimistic that we will win enough constituencies so that we can govern the country well.” If the election is fair and free from dispute his party will accept the results, he said responding to another question. “But there is a condition -- the election must be impartial and peaceful.” He also raised concerns about reports in the media, saying, “We are seeing some unwanted incidents and the way people are being misled and will not be accepted by anyone.” Responding to a question about a possible delay in announcing the election results, the BNP chairman said that in previous elections, results were declared within a specific timeframe and it is expected that the Election Commission will do the same this time.

More than 200 love letters exchanged by a couple during World War II have been digitally published by the Nashville Public Library, offering a deeply personal glimpse into love, uncertainty and hope during wartime. The letters, written by William Raymond “Ray” Whittaker and Jane Dean, were discovered in a Nashville home that once belonged to Jane and her siblings. The collection was donated to the Metro Nashville Archives in 2016. Ray, originally from New Rochelle, New York, came to Nashville to study at the historically Black Meharry Medical College, where he met Jane, also a student. They later lost contact when Ray left the city. In 1942, after being drafted into the Army and stationed at Fort Huachuca in Arizona, Ray reached out to Jane, who was then working as a medical lab technician at Vanderbilt University. Although the archive does not have Ray’s first letter, it includes Jane’s reply dated July 30, 1942. Addressing him formally as “Dear Wm R.,” she wrote that hearing from him was both a “pleasant and sad surprise.” She said she was proud of his service but worried about the uncertainties of war. She ended the letter warmly, urging him to “Write, wire or call me real soon — Lovingly Jane.” China’s Lunar New Year travel rush begins, 9.5 billion trips expected According to metropolitan archivist Kelley Sirko, the letters provide an intimate look at two ordinary people navigating extraordinary times. “You really can’t help but smile,” Sirko said, noting how the correspondence reflects not just romance but also the realities of racial segregation, gender roles and military life. As the letters continued, their relationship grew stronger. Ray, later assigned to help organize the segregated 92nd Infantry Division in Alabama, hinted at marriage. In one letter, he joked that as an officer he would earn more money if married and needed someone to help him spend it. Jane initially questioned whether his feelings were genuine or driven by loneliness. But Ray soon wrote more seriously about wanting a future together. The couple married on Nov. 7, 1942, in Birmingham. In a letter two days later, Jane addressed Ray as “my darling husband,” expressing joy in their marriage despite being separated by war. The collection also includes photographs and Ray’s Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity patch. Archivists have not located any living relatives. Ray died in Nashville in 1989.

On a quiet morning at the Government Pilot High School polling centre in Bhanga upazila under Faridpur-4, an elderly voter stood out on Thursday for his emotional words. Suruj Khan, 80, arrived at the polling centre slowly, leaning on his wife, Nurbahan Begum, for support. Each careful step reflected both age and determination. For Suruj, this was not just another election day; it was perhaps a final chapter in a lifelong exercise of democratic duty. Women flock to Dhaka polling centres as voting progresses Seeing the elderly voter approach, on-duty law enforcers moved forward to assist him. The presiding officer made arrangements so that he would not have to stand in line, allowing him to cast his ballot with ease and dignity. After voting for his preferred candidate, Suruj became visibly emotional. Tears welled up in his eyes as he uttered softly, “Perhaps this is the last vote of my life.” His words captured a lifetime of participation in the nation’s electoral journey, a reminder of how deeply personal the act of voting can be. When asked about the type of candidate he supported, Suruj replied with quiet conviction: “I voted for someone who will not create unrest in the area and will allow all of us to live in peace.” In the Faridpur-4 constituency, a total of eight candidates are contesting this election, offering voters a range of choices. Festive mood marks peaceful start to national election across Bangladesh

Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) AMM Nasir Uddin on Thursday said Bangladesh has set out on the path of democracy and expressed hope that the ‘train of democracy’ will reach its destination. He made the remarks while talking to reporters after casting his vote at Eskaton Garden High School polling centre in the capital. The CEC said public confidence in the Election Commission is already being restored through the current polls. “If trust has not returned, so many people would not have come to the polling centres.” Referring to past elections, he said, “You have seen previous elections where even stray dogs were seen at polling centres. Today, there are no dogs in sight, there are only voters and voters everywhere.” CEC Nasir Uddin reaffirms commitment to peaceful, credible elections Nasir Uddin said around 17 lakh people including nearly 950,000 law enforcement personnel and about 800,000 polling officials have been engaged in conducting the election. “Bringing 17 lakh people together in a coordinated way  is an enormous task. Just imagine how challenging it is,” he said. He said all personnel were given election-oriented training before deployment. This is perhaps one of the largest coordination efforts undertaken in the country, he added. The CEC said the Commission has overcome all challenges so far with the cooperation of stakeholders and remains prepared to tackle any further challenges. CEC urges cooperation for peaceful, credible election “We are neither for nor against anyone. We have only tried to create a peaceful and fair electoral environment. I believe we have succeeded,” he said. Nasir Uddin also said the country must move past the history of staged elections, ballot box snatching and centre occupation. We must forget those chapters, he added He mentioned that 254 million ballot papers were printed and distributed across the country, calling it a gigantic task.

The voter turnout is 32.88 percent throughout the country till 12:00pm in the first half of the ongoing nine-hour balloting of the parliamentary election and referendum, according to the data of the Election Commission. “We’ve gleaned the data from 32,789 out of 42,651 polling stations. According to the data, the voter turnout is 32.88 percent,” said EC Senior Secretary Akhtar Ahmed while briefing reporters at 1:10pm in the city’s Nirbachan Bhaban. The balloting began at 7:30am and will continue uninterrupted till 4:30pm. The balloting is being held in 299 out of 300 parliamentary constituencies across the country amid a peaceful environment. Hidden cameras on police, drones deployed to prevent chaos: EC

Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) Commissioner Sheikh Md Sajjat Ali on Thursday said voting is progressing peacefully with no cause for concern, despite months of rumours surrounding the election. Talking to reporters after casting his vote at the Mohammadpur Preparatory School and College centre in the capital, he said, “For the last six months, we have been hearing rumours that the election would not be held and that various incidents would occur. But today you can see for yourselves that voting is taking place smoothly. There is no problem anywhere and no apprehension.” 37 Dhaka polling centres under risk watch: DMP Commissioner The DMP Commissioner said the Chief Adviser had called for a historic election and that the voting environment so far reflects that aspiration. “After a long 17 years, people are exercising their citizen's rights. I am also happy. I have participated in this vote,” he said. He said a peaceful atmosphere has prevailed at polling centres since morning, with no major incidents of violence reported, and mentioned that rival political parties have expressed willingness to accept the results. “I saw on television that both sides said they would accept the results whatever they may be. Since the voting is transparent and neutral, it is natural that everyone will accept it,” he added. Sajjat Ali expressed the hope that voting would continue peacefully throughout the day and that results would be announced after proper counting. Recalling his experience during the 2018 election, he said he had come to the same centre to cast his vote at that time. “My residence was here then. As you know, I retired in 2016. Now I live at Mintoo Road as DMP Commissioner. In 2018, when I entered the centre after crossing the gate, I was told that my vote had already been cast. After hearing that, I returned from the gate,” he said. DMP Commissioner orders highest security at Dhaka polling centres

Three people including a teenage girl were injured as miscreants hurled several crude bombs at a polling centre in Gopalganj Sadar upazila during voting on Thursday morning. The injured were identified as Ansar members Sukanta Majumdar and Jamal Hossain and Amena Khanam, 14, daughter of Assaf Ali of Arambagh area in the municipality. The incident took place around 9:30am at Reshma International School polling centre, leaving the two Ansar members and the girl who accompanied a voter injured, said Sub-Inspector Zahidul Islam, who was on duty at the centre. Festive mood marks peaceful start to national election across Bangladesh They were given primary treatment at a local clinic and their condition is stable, police said. The main gate of the polling centre was partially damaged due to the blast. Police collected evidence from the spot. Additional law enforcers have been deployed at the centre following the incident.

Home Affairs Adviser Lt Gen (retd) Md Jahangir Alam Chowdhury on Thursday said voting was progressing in a free, peaceful and festive atmosphere, apart from a few stray incidents. He made the remarks while speaking to reporters after casting his vote at the Baridhara Scholars International School and College polling centre in the capital’s Baridhara area around 10:00am. The Home Adviser reiterated his commitment to ensuring that the election is held in a free, fair, peaceful, acceptable and festive environment. Highlighting the vital role of journalists in holding free, fair and credible national elections, he said accurate reporting by the media had helped counter propaganda and misinformation spread by certain Indian outlets. Come out and vote without fear: Army Chief Waker-Uz-Zaman “If the media presents factual news during the national election, it will help prevent rumours and disinformation. I am confident that the media will provide accurate and objective coverage in this election,” he added. Later, the adviser visited the Central Coordination Cell for law and order at the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Operations Control Room at Police Headquarters.