With the Awami League absent and smaller parties sidelined, analysts say the 2026 election risks becoming one of the most sharply divided contests. (AFP)
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News1822-01-2026, 08:20

Bangladesh 2026 Election: BNP-Jamaat Showdown as Awami League Opts Out

  • Bangladesh's 2026 parliamentary election is highly polarized, with the ruling Awami League not participating.
  • The contest has narrowed to a battle between the BNP-led opposition alliance and an 11-party Islamist bloc anchored by Jamaat-e-Islami.
  • BNP-led alliance fields candidates in 272 constituencies, while Jamaat-e-Islami contests independently in 226 seats.
  • Jamaat-e-Islami gained strategic support from Jatiya Party, despite the latter's limited independent role due to pressure.
  • Jamaat-e-Islami leads the Islamist camp with nationwide organization, cadres, and funding, driving strategy and resource deployment.

Why It Matters: Bangladesh's 2026 election is set for a polarized BNP-Jamaat clash, with the Awami League absent.

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