Campaigning wraps up in Bangladesh as parties make their final push before February 12 polls, with voters’ eyes on corruption, inflation, and economic recovery
With just two days to go before Bangladesh heads to the polls on February 12, political campaigning wrapped up on Tuesday. Parties across the political spectrum made their final pitches to voters over weeks of rallies, roadshows and televised addresses before the election code of conduct snapped into place, barring further campaigning ahead of polling.
This election marks a critical moment in Bangladesh’s political journey, coming after years of upheaval and the exile of former prime minister Sheikh Hasina.
With her Awami League party out of the race, the contest has become a straight duel between two major forces: the veteran Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP)‑led alliance and a coalition spearheaded by the Jamaat‑e‑Islami party.
Recent opinion polls have offered mixed pictures of how voters might cast their ballots, but all point to a gripping finish. One survey suggests the BNP remains well ahead in public support, while another shows the Jamaat bloc just inches behind, with only a narrow lead in seats. Yet a third poll paints a vastly different scenario with the BNP dominating on paper. Analysts warn these divergent results may say more about polling methods than voter intentions, underscoring the uncertainty swirling around the outcome.
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The vote that could change Bangladesh
Approximately 128 million people are eligible to vote this time, and among their top concerns are corruption and economic issues.
Both leading parties—the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and Jamaat‑e‑Islami—have stressed on anti‑graft measures in their platforms. Inflation is another pressing issue, as prices have risen significantly, affecting everyday life for many citizens. Economic growth has faltered since the pandemic and political unrest, hitting
Bangladesh’s vital garment sector and contributing to job shortages, particularly among young people.
The political landscape is also shaped by the ban on Hasina’s Awami League, which has left its supporters choosing between other major parties or staying out of the race.
With these economic and governance issues at the forefront, the election will test whether Bangladesh can stabilise its democratic institutions and address the deep challenges facing its electorate.
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