Latest update: 13th national elections and referendum

2026-02-12T02:03:45.673Z

Voting for the long-awaited 13th National Parliamentary Elections concluded on Thursday, February 12. Polling was continued uninterrupted from 7:30am to 4:30 pm. Alongside the parliamentary vote, a national referendum has also been held today on fundamental questions of state reform. Here are the latest updates on the poll:

No victory processions, prayers to be held after Jumu'ah: Tarique Rahman

Tarique Rahman, chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) which has secured an absolute majority in the 13th National Parliamentary Election, has instructed party leaders and activists not to hold victory processions. He said, "The best way to celebrate the people's verdict is to offer gratitude to Allah and maintain peace and order in the country." Tarique Rahman made this statement in a press release issued late Thursday night. He said, "This victory does not belong to any single party alone; it is the victory of democracy-loving people of the country. Therefore, we will exercise restraint instead of holding unnecessary rallies or processions."

He instructed that after Jumu'ah prayers on Friday, February 13, prayers and supplications be arranged at mosques across the country so that the nation may progress on the path of peace, stability and development.

According to party sources, messages have already been sent to organisational units from the centre to the grassroots. It has been stated that cooperation must be extended to law enforcement agencies without engaging in any provocative activities. Instead of potential victory processions, instructions have been given to observe limited programmes expressing gratitude and offering prayers.

BNP set to form government, heading towards absolute majority
The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has secured government formation by winning over 150 seats in the 13th National Parliamentary Election. According to unofficial results and information received from various centres, the party has achieved absolute majority.

BNP leaders said this victory has come through the massive participation and support of the people. At a press conference arranged at the party's central office, leaders stated, "This is the people's clear verdict in favour of restoring democracy." They pledged that the new government will strengthen democratic institutions, establish the rule of law, and work to restore economic stability.

Fazlur Rahman dedicates victory to Bangabandhu, Ziaur Rahman
BNP candidate for Kishoreganj-4 (Itna-Mithamoin-Ashtagram) constituency, senior advocate and brave freedom fighter Fazlur Rahman has been elected unofficially. He won by a margin of 77,704 votes with a total of 132,503 votes under the paddy sheaf symbol.

His nearest rival, Jamaat-e-Islami candidate Advocate Rokon Reza Sheikh, received 54,799 votes. There are a total of 151 centers in the constituency and these results have been known based on the result sheets received by agents from all centers.

11-party alliance candidate Akhtar Hossain wins in Rangpur-4

Akhtar Hossain, 11-party alliance candidate and National Citizen Party (NCP) member secretary, has been unofficially elected in the Rangpur-4 (Pirgacha-Kaunia) constituency in the 13th National Parliamentary Election. Contesting with the shapla flower symbol, he received 1,47,947 votes.

His nearest rival, BNP's former district president Emdadul Haque Bhorasha, contesting with the sheaf of paddy symbol, received 1,38,944 votes.

Andaleeve Rahman Partho unofficially elected

Barrister Andaleeve Rahman Partho, BNP alliance candidate and Bangladesh Jatiya Party (BJP) chairman, has been unofficially elected in the Bhola-1 (Sadar) constituency after defeating the Jamaat-e-Islami candidate by a huge margin. He has been elected member of parliament from this important district seat for the second time. He was previously elected MP from the same constituency in 2008.

According to preliminary results from the Assistant Returning Officer's office, Andaleeve Rahman Partho, contesting with the bullock cart symbol, received 1,04,462 votes. His nearest rival, Jamaat-e-Islami candidate Principal Nazrul Islam, received 73,773 votes. Additionally, Islami Andolan candidate Maolana Obaidur Rahman received 15,091 votes.

The results have been confirmed based on information announced by the Assistant Returning Officer's office.

The Bhola-1 constituency remained intensely competitive from the start of the election. Jamaat-e-Islami had hoped to secure victory for the first time. However, although the contest intensified on the electoral battlefield, the party could not ultimately secure victory.

Jamaat wins all 4 seats in Satkhira

After 17 long years, Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami has made a significant political comeback in Satkhira district. In the 13th national parliamentary election, the party’s candidates were declared winners in all four constituencies of the district according to unofficial results. In the head-to-head contests with the BNP, it was ultimately the Jamaat candidates—backed by the 11-party alliance—who emerged ahead.

BNP leads in all 6 seats of Naogaon in preliminary results

In Naogaon district, preliminary results from the constituencies show that candidates of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) are leading in all six parliamentary seats.

Naogaon-1 (Constituency 46): Out of 166 polling centers, results from 64 centers have been counted. BNP candidate Mostafizur Rahman has received 77,518 votes, while his closest rival, Mahabubul Alam of Jamaat, has secured 52,236 votes.

Naogaon-2 (Constituency 47): Out of 124 centers, 44 have reported results. BNP’s Shamsuzzohah Khan has obtained 51,857 votes, compared to 48,185 votes for Jamaat’s Enamul Haq.

Naogaon-3 (Constituency 48): Results from 49 of 142 centers show BNP candidate Fazle Huda leading with 59,732 votes, while Jamaat’s Mahfuzur Rahman has 43,367 votes.

Naogaon-4 (Constituency 49): Out of 117 centers, 84 have reported results. BNP’s Ikramul Bari Tipu has received 97,394 votes, ahead of Abdur Rakib, who has 66,835 votes.

Naogaon-5 (Constituency 50): From 49 of 118 centers, BNP candidate Zahidul Islam Dholu has 59,732 votes, while Jamaat’s A. S. M. Sayem has 43,367 votes.

Naogaon-6 (Constituency 51): Out of 115 centers, 55 have reported results. BNP’s Sheikh Rezaul Islam leads with 53,412 votes, followed by Jamaat’s Khabirul Islam with 49,446 votes.

Mirza Abbas's wife at returning officer's office amid result manipulation allegations

Tension has erupted at the returning officer's office over allegations of vote result manipulation. Following NCP leader Nasiruddin Patwari's presence there, his rival candidate BNP leader Mirza Abbas's wife Afroza Abbas also went to the office.

Afroza Abbas went to the office of Dhaka Divisional Commissioner and Returning Officer Sharaf Uddin Ahmed Chowdhury around 10:45 pm on Thursday. Earlier, Nasiruddin Patwari had gone there around 8:30 pm. After staying for nearly two hours, he left without speaking to journalists.

An official at the Dhaka Returning Officer's office said the returning officer had sought an explanation regarding Patwari's allegations. Afroza Abbas went there to provide that response.

Several hundred leaders and activists took out a procession outside after news of Afroza Abbas's visit to the office spread.

Shahin Ahmed, chief election agent of Jamaat Islami alliance-nominated candidate Nasiruddin Patwari, alleged that irregularities were taking place in the results of Siddheswari Boy's High School, Motijheel Ideal School and College, Eskaton Boy's High School, Paltan Family Planning Centre, Mahbub Ali Institute and Mirza Abbas College centres.

He claimed, "Despite receiving 15 votes more at Mirza Abbas College centre, agents are being detained for recounting votes. At several centres, votes are being counted three times and attempts are being made to alter results by adding invalid votes."

Shahin Ahmed further said information has been received about agents being detained at several other centres, and declaration of results from centres where they were leading is being delayed. Patwari had gone to the returning officer's office to lodge these allegations.

Returning Officer Sharaf Uddin Ahmed Chowdhury said at night, "I cannot say anything officially right now."

Tarique Rahman wins in Dhaka-17 and Bogura-6

BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman has won in the Dhaka-17 and Bogura-6 (Sadar) constituencies in the 13th National Parliamentary Election.

In Dhaka-17, Tarique Rahman was unofficially elected with 54,825 votes. His nearest rival, Jamaat candidate Dr Khaliduzzaman, received 46,840 votes. He received 7,985 votes more than Dr Khaliduzzaman.

In Bogura-6, Tarique Rahman (sheaf of paddy) received 1,61,651 votes from 116 centres. His nearest rival, Jamaat-e-Islami candidate Abidur Rahman Sohel (scale), received 72,180 votes.

Bogura District Election Officer Fazlul Haque said this Sadar constituency has a total of 4,54,029 voters. Voter turnout was 71.34 per cent. Four candidates contested against Tarique Rahman in this seat.

Salahuddin Ahmed elected in Cox's Bazar-1

BNP candidate and member of the party's national standing committee Salahuddin Ahmed has been unofficially elected in the Cox's Bazar-1 (Chakaria-Pekua) constituency.

This information has been confirmed from the results statement announced by the office of the Assistant Returning Officer of Chakaria and Pekua upazilas.

According to unofficial results declared from 176 centres in Chakaria-Pekua upazila, Salahuddin Ahmed received 2,20,566 votes. His nearest rival, Abdullah Al Faruque of the Jamaat-led 11-party alliance contesting with the scale symbol, received 1,24,726 votes.

Nahid Islam calls on everyone to go to Dhaka-8

National Citizen Party (NCP) Convener Nahid Islam has called upon everyone to gather in Dhaka-8. At 10:42 pm, the party's chief coordinator Nasiruddin Patwari posted a status on his personal Facebook page. He claimed that attempts were being made to alter the results and urged everyone to remain vigilant. He also appealed to those who have not yet gone to their respective polling centres to come forward and guard the centres. Nahid Islam shared Nasiruddin Patwari's status and wrote, "Everyone come to Dhaka-8, to protect the voting rights of students and the masses."

Golam Parwar defeated in Khulna-5

Mia Golam Parwar, Jamaat-e-Islami nominated candidate and secretary general of the party, has been defeated in the Khulna-5 (Phultala-Dumuria-Gilatala Cantonment) constituency. Contesting with the scale symbol, he received 1,44,956 votes.

On the other hand, BNP candidate Mohammad Ali Asgar (Lobi), contesting with the sheaf of paddy symbol, received 1,47,658 votes and emerged victorious. The margin of victory between the two candidates stood at 2,702 votes.

The constituency has a total of 4,02,798 voters and 150 polling centres. The Khulna-5 constituency comprises Phultala and Dumuria upazilas and Gilatala Cantonment area.

Mirza Fakhrul unofficially elected

BNP Secretary General and sheaf of paddy candidate Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has been unofficially elected from the Thakurgaon-1 constituency with 72,547 votes.

This information has been confirmed following the counting of votes at centres in phases from Thursday evening.

According to information, the constituency has a total of 62 centres. The sheaf of paddy candidate received 72,547 votes while his nearest rival Delwar received 44,402 votes.

Meanwhile, in Thakurgaon-2, Jamaat-backed candidate Abdul Hakim and in Thakurgaon-3, BNP's Zahidul Islam emerged victorious.

BNP Candidate Dipu Bhuiyan Wins Narayanganj-1

In Narayanganj-1 (Rupganj) constituency, BNP-nominated candidate Mustafizur Rahman Bhuiyan Dipu has been unofficially declared the winner.

This information was confirmed by Upazila Executive Officer and Returning Officer Saiful Islam.

According to results from 129 polling centers, Mustafizur Rahman Bhuiyan Dipu received 155,421 votes. His closest rival, Anwar Hossain Molla of Jamaat-e-Islami, received 90,289 votes.

Zonayed Saki takes lead by large margin

BNP-backed candidate and chief coordinator of the Ganasamhati Andolan Zonayed Saki is leading by a large margin in Brahmanbaria-6 (Bancharampur) constituency. The results of 19 out of 98 centers have been declared till 10 pm on Thursday. According to the declared results, he got 16,407 votes with the Mathal symbol. His nearest rival, Jamaat-e-Islami candidate Md. Mohsin got 5,958 votes.

The total number of voters in this constituency is 289,674. Returning officer Sharmin Akhter said that the voting turnout was 52.24 percent. She announced the initial results of 19 centers around 10 pm.

Lutfuzzaman Babar leads in Netrokona-4, preliminary results

In the Netrokona-4 constituency (Madan–Mohanganj–Khaliajuri), BNP-nominated candidate and former State Minister for Home Affairs Lutfuzzaman Babar, representing the Dhanshish (paddy sheaf) symbol, has emerged victorious by a significant margin according to unofficial results. This information became available on Thursday evening (February 12) following the announcement of preliminary counts.
Based on data from polling agents at various centers, Babar is leading by 121,042 votes over his nearest rival.

BNP's Fazlur Rahman wins Kishoreganj-4

BNP leader and freedom fighter Fazlur Rahman has been elected from Kishoreganj-4 (Itna–Mithamain–Austagram), securing a landslide victory over his nearest rival, Jamaat-backed candidate Rokon Reza Sheikh.

According to unofficial results from all 150 polling centres across the three upazilas, Fazlur Rahman secured 129,954 votes, while Rokon Reza Sheikh, who contested with the “scales” symbol, secured 57,326 votes.

Reacting to the victory, Fazlur Rahman thanked voters for their support.

BNP's Dipen Dewan elected in Rangamati

BNP candidate Dipen Dewan (paddy sheaf) has been elected unofficially in parliamentary constituency-299 (Rangamati). He received 199,840 votes in the results of 213 centers. His nearest rival Pahel Chakma received 30,992 votes under the football symbol.

In addition, Muhammad Abu Bakar Siddique, the candidate of the rickshaw symbol of the 11-party alliance, received 21,513 votes, Jatiya Party's Ashok Talukder (plough) received 2,873 votes, Md. Jasim Uddin (fan) received 3,256 votes, Jui Chakma (spade) received 1,038 votes and Md. Abul Bashar (truck) received 468 votes.

The total number of voters in Rangamati constituency is 509,267. A total of 226,406 voters, or 54.7 percent, exercised their franchise from 7:30 am to 4:30 pm while 48,707 votes were canceled in this constituency.

NCP's Atiqur Rahman ahead in 134 centres in Kurigram-2

According to the results of 134 centres in Kurigram-2 (Sadar, Rajarhat, Phulbari) constituency, 11-party electoral unity nominated candidate, National Citizen Party (NCP), Atiqur Rahman Mojahid is ahead. He got 122,498 votes under the Shapla Koli symbol. His nearest rival, BNP's Md. Sohel Hossain Kaikobad (Paddy Sheaf) got 116,272 votes. The constituency has a total of 205 polling centres and a total of 604,736 voters.

Nasiruddin Patwary visits returning officer, alleges vote manipulation

Convener of National Citizen Party and a candidate Nasiruddin Patwary has visited the Returning Officer's office, alleging that the results of six centers in Dhaka-8 constituency were changed.

He entered the office of Dhaka Divisional Commissioner and Returning Officer Sharaf Uddin Ahmed Chowdhury to meet him at 7:30pm on Thursday.

BNP ahead in all seven seats in Bogura

In the partial results of seven seats Bogura in the 13th National Parliament elections and referendum, BNP candidates are ahead, including BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman.

This information was revealed by the office of the District Administration and Returning Officer at 9:30pm on Thursday (February 12).

Bogura-6 (Sadar) – BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman, the candidate with the paddy sheaf symbol, is ahead with 37,428 votes in the results of 27 centers while Abidur Rahman Sohel of the scales symbol got 17,428 votes. There are a total of 150 polling stations in the constituency.

Bogura-1 (Sariakandi-Sonatala) – In the results of 16 out of 126 centers, Kazi Rafiqul Islam of the paddy sheaf symbol got 23,703 votes, while his nearest rival Md. Shahabuddin of the scales symbol got 9,424 votes.

Bogura-2 (Shibganj) – Mir Shahe Alam of the paddy sheaf symbol received 5,290 votes in the results of 5 out of 114 centers. Abul Azad Mohammad Shahaduzzaman of the scales symbol received 2,850 votes.

Bogra-3 (Adamdighi-Dupchanchia) – Abdul Mohit Talukder of the paddy sheaf symbol received 8,342 votes in the results of 8 out of 118 centers. Nur Mohammad Abu Taher of the scales symbol received 7,800 votes.

Bogra-4 (Kahalu-Nandigram) – BNP’s Mosharraf Hossain received 33,181 votes in the results of 26 out of 114 centers. Jamaat-e-Islam’s Mustafa Faisal received 23,559 votes.

Bogra-5 (Sherpur-Dhunat) – In the results of 5 out of 188 centers, Golam Mohammad Siraj with the paddy sheaf symbol got 6,461 votes. Dabibur Rahman with the scales symbol got 3,899 votes.

Bogra-7 (Shajahanpur-Gabatoli) – In the results of 59 out of 173 centers, BNP’s Morshed Milton got 87,569 votes. Golam Rabbani with the scales symbol got 30,970 votes.

NCP's Hasnat Abdullah takes lead in Cumilla-4

Hasnat Abdullah, the candidate of the 11-party alliance and the chief coordinator (southern region) of the Jatiya Nagorik Party, is leading in 86 seats out of 116 seats in the Cumilla-4 (Debidwar) seat.

He got 115,472 votes while his nearest rival, Md. A. Jasim Uddin of the Truck symbol of the BNP-backed Gono Odhikar Parishad, got 37,865 votes.

Tarique Rahman leads by double votes in 27 centres in Bogura-6

According to the results of 27 centres in Bogura-6 constituency, comprising 21 wards of Bogura Municipality and Sadar Upazila, BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman is ahead by more than double the votes of his nearest rival.

He got 38,428 votes with the paddy sheaf symbol while Jamaat-e-Islam candidate Abidur Rahman (scale symbol) got 17,428 votes. The total number of polling centres in the constituency is 150 and the total number of voters is 454,043. The voter turnout was 71.15 percent.

Amir Khasru ahead in 31 centres in Chattogram-11

Returning Officer Mohammad Belayet Hossain Chowdhury has announced the results of 31 out of 143 centres in Chattogram-11 (Bandar-Patenga) constituency. In this, BNP candidate Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury got 21,881 votes. His nearest rival, Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islam's Mohammad Shafiul Alam got 15,033 votes. The total number of voters in this constituency is 495,278. Out of these, 252,333 are male voters, 242,942 are female voters and 3 are transgender voters.

BNP's Abdul Awal Mintu leads in Feni-3

The returning officer, Monira Haque, has announced the results from 74 polling centers in the Feni-3 constituency. According to the results, BNP candidate Abdul Awal Mintu is leading. He has secured 141,230 votes from these 74 centers.

His closest rival, Mohammad Fakhruddin, also known as Manik, of Jamaat-e-Islami, has received 84,812 votes.

The constituency has a total of 508,192 registered voters, with 9 candidates contesting and 161 polling centers in total.

Andalib Rahman Partha leads after 40 centers

Following the conclusion of voting in the 13th national parliamentary election for Bhola-1, vote counting and result announcements are underway. Out of a total of 114 centers, preliminary unofficial results from 40 centers have been released so far. Leading in these results is Barrister Andalib Rahman Partha, chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and the BNP alliance candidate.

The results were announced on Thursday (February 12) at 8:15 PM by the Assistant Returning Officer of Sadar Upazila from the Upazila Executive Officer’s office.

According to the data, Andalib Rahman Partha has received 33,184 votes from the 40 centers. His closest competitor,

Jamayat-e-Islami candidate Principal Nazrul Islam, has secured 24,270 votes. Additionally, Maulana Obaidur Rahman Bin Mostafa of the Islami Andolan Bangladesh has received 6,851 votes.

BNP’s Annie leads in 48 centers in Lakshmipur-3

The results from 48 polling centers in Lakshmipur-3 have been announced by Assistant Returning Officer Kathowai Prue Marma. In these 48 centers, BNP candidate Shahid Uddin Chowdhury Annie has received 49,460 votes.

His closest rival, Rezaul Karim of Jamaat-e-Islami, has secured 41,707 votes.

The total number of polling centers in this constituency is 130.

A neck-and-neck contest between Mamunul Haque, Boby Hajjaj in Dhaka-13

In the Dhaka-13 constituency, a tight race is underway between BNP candidate Boby Hajjaj and Mamunul Haque of the Bangladesh Khelafat Majlis.

According to unofficial and preliminary results from 58 polling centers so far, BNP’s Boby Hajjaj, symbolized by the “paddy sheaf,” has received 33,764 votes. On the other hand, Mamunul Haque of the Bangladesh Khelafat Majlis, running under the “rickshaw” symbol, has secured 33,433 votes.

Jamaat Ameer Leads in 66 Centers in Dhaka-15

According to the results from 66 centers in Dhaka-15, Jamaat-e-Islami’s Ameer Shafiqul Rahman is leading with 41,390 votes. His closest rival, BNP candidate Shafiqul Islam Khan, has received 30,326 votes.

The total number of voters in this constituency is 351,718, including 179,616 male voters, 172,098 female voters, and four third-gender voters. There are a total of 127 polling centers in the constituency.

Syed Faisal on verge of victory

In the Habiganj-4 constituency (Madhabpur–Chunarughat), veteran BNP leader and Jatiya Party symbol “Sheaf of Paddy” candidate, Syed Md. Faisal, is on the verge of a massive victory. Following Thursday’s voting, the results from various centers in the constituency started coming in one after another. From the very beginning, this experienced BNP leader took a commanding lead on the path to victory.

According to the preliminary results from 125 out of the 184 centers released so far, Syed Faisal is leading by over 80,000 votes. The figures show that in these 125 centers, Syed Md. Faisal secured 132,284 votes, while his nearest rival, Maulana Gias Uddin of the Islamic Front, symbolized by a candle, received 51,948 votes.

BNP’s Ali Asgar Leads in 31 Centers of Khulna-5

In the Khulna-5 constituency, which includes Phultala, Dumuria Upazila, and the Gilatala Cantonment area, BNP candidate Mohammad Ali Asgar (Lobi) is leading based on results from 31 centers.

Running under the “Sheaf of Paddy” symbol, he has secured 29,371 votes.

His closest rival, Miah Golam Parwar, Secretary General of Jamaat-e-Islami, running under the “Darpalla” symbol, has received 24,739 votes.

The constituency has a total of 150 polling centers and 402,798 registered voters.

Major (Retd.) Hafiz Uddin Ahmed on way to victory in Bhola-3

In Bhola-3 (Lalmohan–Tazumuddin) constituency, Major (Retd.) Hafiz Uddin Ahmed (Bir Bikram), a member of BNP’s standing committee, is set to become a member of parliament for the seventh time. The constituency, which comprises two upazilas, has reported results from all 119 polling centers.

According to information received from party agents at the centers, Hafiz Uddin Ahmed, contesting on the BNP’s “Sheaf of Paddy” symbol, received a total of 151,774 votes across all 119 centers. His nearest rival, Muha. Nizamul Haque Naeem (Fulkopi) of the 11-party alliance, received 55,660 votes.

Salahuddin leading in Cox’s Bazar-1

The results from 20 polling centers in Cox’s Bazar-1 (Chakaria–Pekua) have been announced by the assistant returning officers of Chakaria and Pekua. In these 20 centers, BNP candidate Salahuddin Ahmad has received 28,069 votes.

His closest rival, Abdullah Al Faruq of Jamaat-e-Islami, has secured 12,541 votes.

Cox’s Bazar-1 has a total of 533,089 registered voters, 3 candidates in the fray, and 177 polling centers.

Nurul Haque Noor leads in Patuakhali-3 with 59 centers

Out of a total of 124 polling centers in the Patuakhali-3 constituency, results from 59 centers have been announced.

According to the results, Nurul Haque Noor, the candidate of the Gana Odhikar Parishad, is leading with 57,000 votes.

His closest rival, independent candidate Hasan Mamun, has received 34,000 votes.

Shishir Monir congratulates BNP candidate

Mohammad Shishir Monir, Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami candidate and senior lawyer of the Supreme Court, has congratulated BNP’s candidate Nasir Uddin Chowdhury in the Sunamganj-2 constituency (Dirai-Shalla).

On his verified Facebook page, he wrote, “Congratulations to Mr. Nasir Uddin Chowdhury. Wishing you all the best.”

Out of a total of 109 polling centers in this constituency, results from 105 centers have been announced. According to the results, BNP’s candidate Nasir Uddin Chowdhury is leading by nearly 50,000 votes.

BNP's Ashraf Uddin Bakul takes lead in l42 centers of Narsingdi-5 constituency

Out of a total of 167 polling centers in Narsingdi-5, results from 42 centers have been declared so far. According to the available results, Ashraf Uddin Bakul, the candidate of the “paddy sheaf” symbol, is leading with 32,815 votes.

Among other candidates, the “hand fan” symbol received 6,740 votes, the “rickshaw” symbol got 8,870 votes, the “microphone” symbol secured 5,153 votes, and the “football” symbol received 2,175 votes.

This information was confirmed on Thursday (February 12) night by Assistant Returning Officer Masud Rana.

Mirza Fakhrul leading in Thakurgaon-1 constituency

Out of a total of 185 polling centers in Thakurgaon-1, results from 26 centers have been announced. According to the results, BNP candidate Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir is leading, having secured 29,701 votes.

His closest rival, Jamaat candidate Delwar Hossain, has received 19,342 votes.

BNP’s Asaduzzaman wins Jhenaidah-1constituency

In the unofficial results of the Jhenaidah-1 (Shailkupa) constituency, BNP candidate Md. Asaduzzaman has been declared the winner. Contesting with the party’s electoral symbol “Sheaf of Paddy,” he secured 171,598 votes.

His nearest rival, Jamaat candidate Abu Saleh Md. Matiur Rahman, received 55,577 votes with the “Scales” symbol.

Returning Officer Md. Abdullah Al Masud announced the unofficial results shortly before 8:00 pm on Thursday. The total number of registered voters in the constituency is 325,278.

Jamaat Ameer defeats at his own polling center

Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr. Shafiqur Rahman was defeated at his own polling center. At the Monipur High School center in the capital, he received 560 votes.

At the same center, BNP candidate Md. Shafiqul Islam Khan, contesting with the paddy sheaf symbol, secured 565 votes. As a result, the BNP candidate is leading by a margin of five votes.

Mirza Abbas takes lead after results from 12 polling centers

In the unofficial results from 12 polling centers in the Dhaka-8 constituency (Motijheel, Shahbagh, Ramna, Paltan, and Shahjahanpur), Mirza Abbas, the candidate representing the Sheaf of Paddy symbol, is leading.

According to the results received, he is ahead by a margin of 926 votes in these centers.

The unofficial outcome was known on Thursday (February 12) after voting concluded and ballot counting was completed.

Sources concerned said that in the 12 centers, Mirza Abbas secured 7,423 votes.

Meanwhile, his closest rival, Nasir Uddin Patwari, the candidate with the Water Lily symbol, received 6,497 votes.

Cumilla-4 'Truck' symbol candidate boycotts poll

Cumilla-4 (Debidwar) constituency candidate Jasim Uddin, contesting under the 'Truck' symbol, has announced that he is boycotting the election, claiming various irrigularities.

He made the announcement via Facebook Live at 4:37pm on Thursday (February 12). Jasim Uddin alleged widespread irregularities at several polling centres, including Boroshalghor, Yusufpur, Rasulpur, Sabil, Masikara, and Fatehabad unions.

Clash between supporters in Chattogram’s Anwara leaves six injured

A clash between supporters of two candidates left six people injured in Anwara Upazila of Chattogram on Thursday afternoon (February 12). The incident took placer near Guapanchak High School polling centre in No. 1 Beirag Union.

Cocktail explosions trigger panic at Chouddagram polling centre

Cumilla's Chouddagram Upazila witnessed a tense moment on Thursday afternoon (February 12) when several cocktail explosions near Atakara Government Primary School polling centre. The incidents took place around 12:00pm, prompting voters to scatter in panic and fear.

Voting concludes nationwide, counting underway

Voting for the 13th National Parliament Election and 2026 Referendum has concluded across Bangladesh. Polling ran smoothly from 7:30am to 4:30pm, with voters exercising their franchise at all designated centres. According to the Election Commission, polling was held at 42,651 centres nationwide. Domestic postal ballots were also received by returning officers on time, with 6,48,000 voters casting their ballots via postal voting.

Presiding Officer withdrawn for early result sheet signing in Naogaon

The Election Commission has suspended the presiding officer of Katkhair High School polling centre in Naogaon Sadar Upazila following allegations that he signed and sealed the result sheet before vote counting commenced. The incident came to light around 11:30am, prompting immediate action by Sadar Upazila Executive Officer and Assistant Returning Officer Ibnul Abedin.

Clash between supporters in Chattogram’s Anwara leaves six injured

Election results to be gazetted by February 14: Asif Nazrul

Law, Justice, and Parliamentary Affairs Adviser Asif Nazrul on Thursday (February 12) confirmed that the results of the 13th National Parliament elections will be officially gazetted by February 14, with the new government expected to assume office between February 17 and 18.

Clash between supporters in Chattogram’s Anwara leaves six injured

3 election officials withdrawn over duplicate vote in Shreepur

The Election Commission has withdrawn three election officials after a female voter discovered that her ballot had already been cast while she was waiting in line at a polling centre in Gazipur-3 (Shreepur and part of Gazipur Sadar). The incident took place around 10:30am at Shreepur Pilot Government Girls’ High School polling centre on Thursday (February 12).

Rupsha Dakshin Uninon women break 56-year voting silence

For the first time in 56 years, women in Rupsā Dakshin Union of Chandpur's Faridganj Upazila exercised their right to vote on Thursday (February 12), breaking a long-standing local taboo that had discouraged female participation. The turnout has sparked widespread attention across the area.

35% vote cast in Sylhet's six constituencies by midday: Returning Officers

Voting in Sylhet’s six parliamentary constituencies reached 35 percent after six and a half hours of polling, the Returning Officer and Sylhet Deputy Commissioner Md Sarwar Alam said on Thursday (February 12). However, no major incidents or complaints were reported by midday, he added.

Jubo Shakti leader arrested with fake ballots in Panchagarh

A leader of the National Citizen Party (NCP) youth wing Jatiya Jubo Shakti, Sukumar Das Babu, was arrested outside Atwari Pilot High School polling centre in Panchagarh-1 for possessing fake ballot papers on Thursday (February 12). A judicial magistrate later sentenced him to three years in prison and fined him Tk 10,000 lakh.

Election violence: 486 incidents, 59 fraud cases reported nationwide by 2pm

The Home Ministry’s Emergency Coordination Cell reported widespread incidents of disruption and irregularities during the 13th National Parliamentary Election and referendum 2026. As of 2:00pm on Thursday (February 12), a total of 486 disturbances were recorded at polling centres across the country.

Whatever the outcome, I will accept it: Ishraque Hossain
BNP-nominated candidate for Dhaka-6, Engineer Ishraque Hossain, said on Thursday (February 12) that he would accept the outcome of the 13th National Parliamentary Election, whatever it may be. Speaking to reporters after casting his vote at Kamrunnesa Government Girls’ High School polling centre in the capital's Tejgaon, Ishraque described the voting environment as “good so far” and said voter turnout had been satisfactory.

Jamaat leader arrested with cash outside polling centre in Chuadanga
Law enforcement officials arrested Sharif, president of Jamaat’s Ward-9 unit in Chuadanga municipality, along with cash, near a polling centre on Thursday morning (February 12). He was later taken into police custody in the presence of an executive magistrate.

Tarique Rahman urges for quick announcement of election results
BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman on Thursday (February 12) urged the Election Commission to announce the results of the national polls promptly, stressing the need for transparency and public confidence. Speaking briefly to reporters at his Gulshan office after casting his vote and visiting several polling centres, Tarique Rahman said, “Voters should be able to know the outcome of their votes without delay. The Election Commission must take effective steps to ensure this.”

BNP's victory is certain: Mahdi Amin
BNP spokesperson for ‘Central Election Steering Committee’ Mahdi Amin on Thursday (February 12) expressed full confidence in the party’s victory, saying that the long-awaited opportunity for citizens to exercise their voting rights would secure the “Dhaner Shish” symbol’s win.
Speaking at a press conference at the BNP election committee office in the capital's Gulshan, Mahdi Amin said, “The enthusiastic turnout of voters at polling centres reflects the public’s democratic aspirations. Through a free and fair election, the victory of the Dhanshish symbol is now only a matter of time.”

Claim of Hannan Masud's brother's death rumor
A claim circulating on social media that the younger brother of Abdul Hannan Masud, a candidate of the 11-party alliance in Noakhali-6 (Hatiya) and a leader of the National Citizen Party (NCP), has been killed has been dismissed as a rumour.
Independent fact-checking organisation Rumor Scanner said the claim is false. The Hatiya Upazila administration also refuted the allegation.

19 hurt in BNP–Jamaat clash in Bagerhat; one held with weapons
At least 19 leaders and activists of BNP and Jamaat were injured in a clash in Shoronkhola, Bagerhat, centering on the 13th National Parliamentary Election. The injured were admitted to the Upazila Health Complex. Law enforcement agencies are working to bring the situation under control amid heightened tensions in the area.

Journalist hacked while on duty in Noakhali’s Hatiya
A Bangladesh Television (BTV) journalist was allegedly hacked with a sharp weapon while collecting news in Hatiya upazila of Noakhali on Thursday morning (February 12). The injured journalist, Miraj Uddin, was attacked in the Gamchakhali area under Char Ishwar union. His motorcycle rider, Sakib, was also injured in the incident.

Chief Adviser monitors nationwide polling from Police HQ control room
Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus on Thursday (February 12) monitored the nationwide voting situation during the 13th National Parliamentary Election and referendum from a control room set up at Police Headquarters. He observed live feeds and reports from different parts of the country. Home Adviser Lt Gen (retd) Jahangir Alam Chowdhury and Inspector General of Police (IGP) Baharul Alam were present at the time.

Mirza Abbas expresses 100% confident of victory in Dhaka-8
BNP-nominated candidate and party Standing Committee member Mirza Abbas on Thursday (February 12) expressed “100 percent confidence” of winning the Dhaka-8 seat. He cast his vote around 12:30pm at Mirza Abbas Mohila College polling centre in Shahjahanpur in the capital.

Bogura records 38.55% vote cast in seven seats by noon
Voter cast in Bogura’s seven parliamentary constituencies reached an average of 38.55 percent as of 12:00pm on Thursday (February 12), according to data from the district administration and the returning officer’s office. Officials said female voters turned out in higher numbers during the morning hours, while male participation increased gradually as the day advanced.

The most joyful election in history is being held: Jamaat
Regarding the voting for the 13th National Parliament election, Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami has said that the most joyful and anticipated election in the country's history is being held. The party's Assistant Secretary General and Head of the Central Publicity and Media Department, Advocate Ehsanul Mahbub Zubair, made this comment at a briefing organized at the central office in the capital at 10:30am on Thursday (February 12). The statement was shared on the party's Facebook post.

31.93 percent votes cast in 4.5 hours in 6 constituencies of Naogaon
An average of 31.93 percent votes were cast in the six constituencies of Naogaon in the four and a half hours since the start of voting. District Returning Officer and Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Saiful Islam confirmed this information at 12:30 pm on Thursday.
He said that 33 percent votes were cast in Naogaon-1 constituency, 37.56 percent in Naogaon-2 constituency, 32.25 percent in Naogaon-3 constituency, 37 percent in Naogaon-4 constituency, 23 percent in Naogaon-5 constituency and 28.80 percent in Naogaon-6 constituency. This figure does not include postal ballots.

Youth held trying to steal ballot papers in Kushtia, jailed for 3 years
A youth identified as Shahin Malitha, 28, has been detained by police while attempting to flee after stealing ballot papers from a polling centre in the Kushtia-2 (Mirpur) constituency. A mobile court subsequently sentenced him to three years' rigorous imprisonment and fined him Tk 1,000. He was ordered to serve an additional 15 days in prison in default of paying the fine.

Around 44% votes cast in Rajshahi by 11am
Voting is taking place in a festive atmosphere across different upazilas of Rajshahi. Officials concerned said that, on average, around 44 percent of votes had been cast in most centers in the district by 11:30am. Except for one or two isolated incidents, the overall situation remains peaceful. Sharmin Sultana, presiding officer of Kutipara Government Primary School-5 center in Godagari upazila, said that nearly 44 percent of votes had been cast at her center.

No fear regarding election: DMP Commissioner
Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) Commissioner SM Sazzat Ali has cast his vote in the 13th National Parliamentary Election. He exercised his franchise at the Mohammadpur Preparatory School and College centre in the capital at 11:00 am on Thursday, February 12.
After voting, the DMP Commissioner spoke to journalists. He said, "Votes will be counted fairly and results will be published. Not just yesterday, for the past six months we have been hearing rumours that the election won't happen—this and that. But you are seeing the election is being held fairly."32.88 per cent voter turnout until 12 pm: EC
The Election Commission has reported that 32.88 per cent of votes were cast until 12 pm across 32,000 centres in the 13th National Parliamentary Election nationwide. EC Secretary Akhtar Ahmed provided this information at a briefing held at 12:45 pm on Thursday, February 12.
The EC Secretary said, "We have learned of isolated incidents in various parts of the country. However, no polling has been suspended at any centre so far. Voting is ongoing at all centres. There is no alarming situation."

Bogura records 38.55% vote cast in seven seats by 12pm
Voter cast in Bogura’s seven parliamentary constituencies reached an average of 38.55 percent as of 12pm on Thursday (February 12), according to data from the district administration and the returning officer’s office. Officials said female voters turned out in higher numbers during the morning hours, while male participation increased gradually as the day advanced.

31.93 percent votes cast in 4.5 hours in Naogaon
An average of 31.93 percent votes were cast in the six constituencies of Naogaon in the four and a half hours since the start of voting. District Returning Officer and Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Saiful Islam confirmed this information at 12:30 pm on Thursday.

He said that 33 percent votes were cast in Naogaon-1 constituency, 37.56 percent in Naogaon-2 constituency, 32.25 percent in Naogaon-3 constituency, 37 percent in Naogaon-4 constituency, 23 percent in Naogaon-5 constituency and 28.80 percent in Naogaon-6 constituency. This figure does not include postal ballots.

Around 44% votes cast in Rajshahi by 11am
Voting is taking place in a festive atmosphere across different upazilas of Rajshahi. Officials concerned said that, on average, around 44 percent of votes had been cast in most centers in the district by 11:30am. Except for one or two isolated incidents, the overall situation remains peaceful.

Sharmin Sultana, presiding officer of Kutipara Government Primary School-5 center in Godagari upazila, said that nearly 44 percent of votes had been cast at her center.

Youth held trying to steal ballot papers in Kushtia, jailed for 3 years
A youth identified as Shahin Malitha, 28, has been detained by police while attempting to flee after stealing ballot papers from a polling centre in the Kushtia-2 (Mirpur) constituency. A mobile court subsequently sentenced him to three years' rigorous imprisonment and fined him Tk 1,000. He was ordered to serve an additional 15 days in prison in default of paying the fine.

Mirpur Upazila Executive Officer and Assistant Returning Officer Nazmul Islam confirmed the information. The convict is the son of late Abdul Malitha of Nauda Gobindapur village in the upazila.

No fear regarding election: DMP Commissioner
Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) Commissioner SM Sazzat Ali has cast his vote in the 13th National Parliamentary Election. He exercised his franchise at the Mohammadpur Preparatory School and College centre in the capital at 11:00 am on Thursday, February 12.

After voting, the DMP Commissioner spoke to journalists. He said, "Votes will be counted fairly and results will be published. Not just yesterday, for the past six months we have been hearing rumours that the election won't happen—this and that. But you are seeing the election is being held fairly."

He further said, "The major competing parties—I saw in the TV scroll that both are saying they will accept whatever the outcome. So there will be no more problems."

9 injured in BNP-Jamaat clashes in Meherpur
At least nine people have been injured in separate clashes between BNP and Jamaat-e-Islami supporters in Meherpur Sadar and Gangni upazilas on election day. The incidents occurred on Thursday morning in the Chandpur Government Primary School centre area in Sadar upazila and the Bhatpara area in Gangni upazila.

The clash in Bhatpara Government Primary School centre in Gangni upazila originated around 10:00 am over obstructing voters' entry into the polling centre.

Witnesses said the situation remained calm until morning but tension spread as the day progressed. At one stage, an argument between the two sides escalated into a clash. The injured were treated at local clinics.

Police and BGB members rushed to the spot upon receiving information and brought the situation under control.

Nasiruddin Patwary comes under attack, rescued by army
Nasiruddin Patwary, 11-party alliance candidate and National Citizen Party (NCP) leader for the Dhaka-8 constituency, faced an unpleasant situation while visiting the Railway Colony High School polling centre.

The incident occurred around 12 pm on Thursday, February 12, when he was speaking to journalists on the centre premises, and an attack was carried out on him, he alleged.

Witnesses said while Nasiruddin Patwary was speaking, activists affiliated with Mirza Abbas raised slogans chanting 'fake, fake'. Tension escalated between both sides at one stage, leading to chasing and counter-chasing. Allegations of attack were made during this time.

The army immediately intervened to bring the situation under control. Law enforcement agencies safely evacuated Nasiruddin Patwary, who had become caught up in the disorder.

Lutfuzzaman Babar casts vote after 17 years
After nearly 17 and a half years, former State Minister for Home Affairs and BNP leader Lutfuzzaman Babar cast his vote. Expressing his excitement, he thanked Allah for the opportunity to vote again.

On Thursday morning, he stood in line and voted at Madan Court Building Government Primary School polling center in Madan upazilz of Netrokona. He cast his vote along with his family as the BNP candidate for the paddy sheaf symbol in the Netrokona-4 (Madan–Mohanganj–Khaliajuri) constituency. Babar said that several of his family members voted for the first time.

After voting, he said that being able to vote and participate in the election is a great blessing for him. He expressed his joy at being able to vote with his family after a long wait. He also commented that voting was taking place in a peaceful environment in his area and expressed hope that polling would be completed peacefully across the country.

Jamaat ward president held with cash near polling centre
Sharif Hasan, 55, president of Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami's ward 9, has been detained with cash in front of the Rizia Khatun Provati Government Primary School polling centre in Chuadanga municipality. The incident occurred around 10 am on Thursday.

Deputy Collector of the Nezarat Branch and Executive Magistrate Alauddin Al Azad confirmed the matter. He said Tk 79,000 in cash was recovered from the detained Sharif Hasan.

Tamim casts first vote at 36, says 'voting is going well'
Former Bangladesh national cricket team captain Tamim Iqbal has cast his first vote at the age of 36. He said voting is taking place in a calm and hassle-free environment. Tamim cast his vote at booth 19 of the Regional Public Administration centre in the Chattogram-9 constituency at 11:20 am on Thursday, February 12. The star cricketer spoke to journalists after voting.

Tamim said, "I cast my first vote in life. Voting is going well. I gave one vote to my preferred candidate." He was accompanied by an army protocol when entering the polling centre. On the voting environment, he said the atmosphere is healthy and expressed hope that everyone will be able to vote without hindrance.

Over hundred ballots stamped for sheaf of paddy recovered in Sherpur, 2 held
Law enforcement agencies have recovered over a hundred ballot papers already stamped in favour of the sheaf of paddy symbol from a polling centre in the Sherpur-1 (Sadar) constituency. Two individuals have been arrested in this connection. The incident took place around 9:30 am on Thursday at the South Nalbaid Government Primary School centre in Charmocharia union, Sadar upazila.

District Election Officer Jahangir Hossain said two BNP supporters tactfully collected over a hundred ballots and stamped them for the sheaf of paddy symbol. When the matter came to the presiding officer's attention, law enforcement was immediately informed. The stamped ballots were subsequently recovered, and the two accused were arrested. The recovered ballots will be cancelled, he added.

Forcibly stamping ballots attempted: Rumeen Farhana
arrister Rumeen Farhana, independent candidate for the Brahmanbaria-2 constituency (Sarail, Ashuganj and parts of Bijoynagar), has alleged that supporters of Jonaed Al Habib, candidate backed by the BNP alliance, attempted to forcibly stamp ballots at eight polling centres in Ashuganj upazila.

She made the allegation while speaking to journalists after casting her vote at the Shahbajpur North Government Primary School centre in Sarail at 9:15 am on Thursday, February 12.

Rumeen Farhana said she has sent a list of the eight centres to police, army and the Deputy Commissioner, among other concerned authorities. She also claimed her activists are facing administrative harassment.

Hand bombs explode outside Munshiganj polling centre, voting disrupted
Multiple hand bomb explosions in front of a polling centre in Sadar upazila under the Munshiganj-3 constituency temporarily halted voting. Ten to twelve hand bombs went off in quick succession around 10:15 am on Thursday in front of the Makhati Gurucharan High School centre.

Panic spread at the centre following the incident, and voting was suspended for approximately 15 minutes. Voting resumed after the situation was brought under control.

Presiding Officer Md Titumir said voting was halted briefly due to the explosions, but polling is now normal and voters are casting their ballots.

Polling officer dies on duty at Brahmanbaria centre
Polling officer Md Mujahidul Islam has died while on duty during voting at Sarail upazila in Brahmanbaria. He collapsed at booth number 51 at the Sirajul Islam Auditorium centre on Thursday morning, February 12, while performing his duties. Sarail Upazila Executive Officer Md Abu Bakar Sarkar confirmed the death of the polling officer. Mujahidul Islam was a teacher at the Islami Foundation in Paniswar union, Sarail upazila.

BNP leader dies at Khulna polling centre
Mahibuzzaman kochi, a BNP leader, died at Khulna Sadar Alia Madrasa polling centre at 8:10 am on Thursday. He was a former office secretary of Khulna Metropolitan BNP.

Witnesses and police said tension arose between BNP and Jamaat supporters outside the centre. BNP alleged that Mahibuzzaman Kochi was pushed during Jamaat's campaigning at the centre, causing him to hit his head against a tree, leading to his death.

However, Jamaat's centre-in-charge Mahbubur Rahman claimed the incident occurred outside the centre due to a heart attack; no one was pushed or assaulted. The centre's presiding officer also said this was not an issue inside the centre. Sadar Thana police said they rushed to the spot upon seeing tension between both sides and brought the situation under control.

Cocktail blast at Gopalganj polling centre, 3 including child injured
A cocktail explosion took place at a polling centre in Gopalganj Sadar during voting. Two Ansar members on duty and a child were injured. The main gate of the polling centre was also damaged in the blast.

The incident occurred around 9 am on Thursday, February 12, at Reshma International School polling centre in Sadar upazila. The injured are Ansar member Sukontha Majumdar, Section Commander Jamal Hossain who were on duty at the polling centre, and a 13-year-old child, Amena Khanam, who had accompanied a voter.

Sub-Inspector Jahidul Islam, on duty at the polling centre, confirmed the incident. He said voting was proceeding peacefully at the centre around 9:00 am when miscreants threw a cocktail targeting the polling centre from across a canal outside. Three people, including two Ansar members, were injured. The loud blast caused panic among voters and locals present. He further said evidence was collected from the spot and higher authorities were informed.

Nasiruddin Patwary visits Mirza Abbas's polling centre
Nasiruddin Patwary, NCP-nominated candidate for the Dhaka-8 constituency, has visited the polling centre of his contestant Mirza Abbas. He visited the Mirza Abbas Mohila Degree College centre at 11:30 am on Thursday, February 12. BNP leader Mirza Abbas is scheduled to cast his vote at this centre.

Female polling agents harassed, obstructed: Tasnim Jara
Dr Tasnim Jara, independent candidate for the Dhaka-9 constituency, has alleged that her female polling agents are being harassed and obstructed at various polling centres. She made the allegations while speaking to journalists after visiting the capital's Khilgaon Model College centre on Thursday morning, February 12.

Tasnim Jara said her polling agents are being prevented from entering various centres. Claiming that agents are being denied entry under various pretexts, she stated, "Our female agents, in particular, are being treated with extreme discourtesy and harassment."

She further said, "Our only expectation is that everyone can cast their votes fairly and without hindrance."

Rajshahi-5: Clash between BNP-independent candidate supporters
A clash has taken place between supporters of the sheaf of paddy and independent football symbol candidates in Durgapur upazila under the Rajshahi-5 constituency. The incident occurred around 8:50 am on Wednesday in front of the Naopara Government Primary School centre in Durgapur upazila.

Witnesses said an argument broke out between Rezaul Karim, the independent candidate contesting with the football symbol, and supporters of Nazrul Islam Mandal, the sheaf of paddy candidate, after Karim arrived at the polling centre. At one stage, pushing and shoving escalated into a clash between both sides. No one was seriously injured in the incident. Police and army personnel rushed to the spot upon receiving information and brought the situation under control. The environment at the centre is currently peaceful.

Sylhet votes peacefully, agents of only 3 candidates present
Voting for the 13th National Parliamentary Election and referendum is underway peacefully in Sylhet since morning. Spontaneous voter presence was observed across various centres in the city. While only a handful of voters were present when polling began in the morning, turnout increased as the day progressed.

This correspondent visited seven centres under Sylhet-1 constituency in the city until 10 am on Thursday, February 12, and observed the situation.

While agents of candidates contesting with the sheaf of paddy, scale and independent truck symbols were present at each centre, no agents of other candidates were seen. Concerned presiding officers said voting was delayed in some places as candidates' agents did not arrive on time. A vigilant presence of law enforcement agencies, including police and Ansar, was observed at every centre. Army personnel were seen patrolling the city.

'Eid Mubarak', CA greets everyone after casting vote
Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus casts his vote at Gulshan Model School and College polling centre on Thursday morning. Dr Yunus exercised his franchise at 10:25am in the 13th Parliamentary Election and the Referendum on the July National Charter.

Earlier, the Chief Adviser arrived at the polling centre around 10:20am.

After casting his vote, he told reporters, "From today, we have the opportunity to create a new Bangladesh in every position. Today, we celebrate our birthday all day long. Everyone is celebrating and will definitely hold a referendum. The votes of the candidates are important. The referendum is very important. I urge everyone to participate in the referendum so that we can build a new Bangladesh. Today is a day of joy for everyone in Bangladesh. A day of liberation. The end of our nightmare, the beginning of a new dream. I congratulate everyone. Eid Mubarak."

Low voter turnout observed in Gopalganj centres
While voting is taking place in a festive atmosphere across the country, comparatively low voter turnout has been observed at various polling centres in Gopalganj. A BBC report said voter turnout until morning was very low at various centres visited across the district.

There were concerns that the situation in Gopalganj might be somewhat different from the start of voting in the morning. Until 9 am, most centres had virtually no voter presence. At several centres, agents of candidates other than the sheaf of paddy symbol were also absent. The Gopalganj-3 constituency has approximately three lakh voters. Across the three constituencies of Gopalganj-1, 2 and 3, the total number of voters is around 10 lakh. Gopalganj has long been known as a stronghold of the Awami League.

Bangladesh's democracy train will reach its destination: CEC after voting
Chief Election Commissioner A M M Nasir Uddin has commented that the train of democracy Bangladesh has boarded will reach its destination. He made these remarks while speaking to journalists after arriving to cast his vote at the Eskaton Garden High School centre in the capital on Thursday morning, February 12.

The CEC said, "Yesterday I spoke with many district administrators and SPs across the country. I told them they cannot work in favour of anyone. They must work impartially. It is not enough to be impartial yourself; you must ensure everyone around you is also impartial. The Divisional Commissioner is here and can bear witness to this."

"I wanted to make a contribution to the nation at this critical juncture. I am trying to do that."

Ducsu VP Sadik Kayem casts vote
Dhaka University Central Students' Union (Ducsu) VP Sadik Kayem has said the people of Bangladesh had been waiting for a day like this for a long time. For the past 16 years, the country's people were deprived of joy. The people's struggle for liberation now has the opportunity to be realised through the election of representatives.

He made these remarks while speaking to journalists after casting his vote at Khagrachhari's Shishu Government Primary School centre at 8:30 am on Thursday, February 12.

Bobby Hajjaj alleges voter list discrepancies, long queues
Bobby Hajjaj, BNP-nominated candidate for the Dhaka-13 constituency, has alleged that many voters are having to return without casting their votes even after queuing up. He said many voters are unable to find their names due to discrepancies between the voter lists held by presiding officers and returning officers and those held by polling agents. This is causing extreme suffering for voters.

Bobby Hajjaj made these allegations while speaking to journalists after visiting the Mohammadpur Government Physical Education College centre at 9:40 am on Thursday, February 12. He said, "Voter information obtained from the Election Commission's online database does not match the registers of polling officers at the centre. Discrepancies are also being found with the printed lists held by our polling agents."

Bobby Hajjaj informed that he had visited seven centres prior and found such irregularities in almost every centre. Sharing one experience, he said a voter's name was found at a centre only after speaking at length with the returning officer and searching again using name, date of birth and address. However, he claimed many voters left without waiting for long periods.

Cast your vote without any fear: Army Chief
Noting that voting in the 13th National parliamentary elections is going on very peacefully, Army Chief General Waker-uz-Zaman has requested the countrymen to go to the polling station without fear.

He cast his vote at Adamjee Cantonment College in Uttara at 10:25 am on Thursday. After voting, the Army Chief said, "I would like to request all the voters to come out and vote without fear. This is a very important day for us. Inshallah we will be able to hold a fair election."

No scope for poll obstruction or rigging: EC Sanaullah
Voter presence at polling centres across the country since morning has been encouraging, said Election Commissioner Brigadier General Abul Fazal Mohammad Sanaullah. He warned that no one will be spared if any attempt is made to rig the election or buy votes with money. He expressed optimism that the voter turnout at the end of the day will be satisfactory.

EC Sanaullah cast his vote at the capital's Viqarunnisa Noon School and College centre on Thursday morning, February 12. After voting and visiting the centre, he spoke to journalists and provided an overview of the overall election situation. He informed that approximately 150 voters had cast their votes in the first hour at the centre he visited.

EC Sanaullah said no complaints of obstruction to voting have reached the Election Commission from anywhere in the country so far. According to information received from across the country, voter turnout is gradually increasing.

Female voters throng at polling stations in Bogura
Women's participation has been seen in high numbers since the morning of the 13th National Parliament Elections and Referendum in Bogura. However, the number of male voters is also increasing as the day progresses.

Voting began today at 7:30am and will continue until 4:30 pm. Voting is being held at 983 polling stations in seven parliamentary constituencies of Bogura. The total number of voters in the district is 2,981,982. Voters present at the polling stations said that they are exercising their voting rights smoothly so far. No one is creating obstacles or pressure. Voting is being held in a peaceful atmosphere.

At least 20 Awami League supporters from Bogura-6 (Sadar) and Bogura-7 (Shajahanpur-Gabatoli) constituencies said they would not vote as the boat symbol was not on the ballot. The election will not be acceptable if the country's major political party (Awami League) is left out.

Tarique Rahman casts his vote
BNP Chairperson Tarique Rahman has cast his vote in the 13th National Parliamentary Election. He voted at 9:30 am on Thursday, February 12, at the Gulshan Model School and College centre.

The BNP chairperson arrived at the centre under tight security to cast his vote. He was accompanied by his wife Zubaida Rahman and daughter Zaima Rahman. Strict security measures were in place by the army and police surrounding Tarique Rahman's visit to the polling centre.

This is the first time Tarique Rahman is contesting a national parliamentary election. The BNP has announced that if the party forms the government, Tarique Rahman will be the prime minister. This centre became a focal point of increased attraction for party leaders and activists on the occasion of Tarique Rahman's vote casting. Not only party activists but international media and foreign observers also had their special attention fixed here.

Tarique Rahman is contesting from the Dhaka-17 constituency as well as his ancestral constituency Bogura-6 with the sheaf of paddy symbol. Ending 17 years of exile, Tarique Rahman returned to the country on November 25 last year. He became a voter on November 27 that year.

Hasnat Abdullah casts vote
Hasnat Abdullah, candidate of the 11-party alliance and chief organiser for the southern region of the National Citizen Party, NCP, in the Cumilla-4 constituency, has cast his vote in the 13th national parliamentary election and referendum.

He voted at 7.40am on February 12 at the Gopalnagar High School polling centre in Cumilla.

No reason for delay in election results: EC Secretary
Senior secretary of the Election Commission Secretariat Akhtar Ahmed has said there is no reason for any delay in announcing the results of the upcoming election.

He said every ballot would be counted. Voting will begin at 7.30am on February 12 and counting will be completed by 10am the following day, Friday. The EC secretary made the remarks at a press conference held on Monday, February 9, at the Election Building in Agargaon, Dhaka.

Asked about claims that counting could take three to five days due to the large-scale voting, he said there was no possibility of it taking five days to complete the count. “We will finish counting by 10am on Friday. Every ballot must be counted and that time has to be given. Voter numbers are not the same in all constituencies. Besides, officials also want to go home after completing the count, so no one will sit idle with ballots,” he said.

EU observer team expects participatory and peaceful elections
Today is a big day for democracy in Bangladesh, said Ivars Ijabs, head of the European Union (EU) election observation team. He expressed this reaction to reporters after visiting the Siddheshwari Girls College center in the capital on Thursday morning.

The EU observer team arrived at the center about half an hour before the start of the voting. They closely monitored the preparations for the entire election process. Before the start of the voting, as per the rules, the presiding and returning officers displayed the transparent ballot boxes in front of the observers and then sealed them and prepared them for voting. Voting began at the center on time.

Expressing satisfaction with the start of the voting process, Ijabs said, “The election has started here in a very orderly manner and at the scheduled time. We have seen the process of starting the voting with our own eyes. Our expectation is that a participatory election will be held not only in the capital but also throughout the country.”

Voted with hope for change: Sarjis
Sarjis Alam, candidate of 11-party alliance for Panchagarh-1 constituency and chief organizer of the National Citizen Party (NCP) in the northern region, cast his vote on Thursday morning. He voted at the Bamon Kumar Rakhal Devi Hat Ideal High School polling center in Atwari upazila around 8:30am. Arriving at the center at 8am with his father and younger brother, Sarjis stood in line before casting his vote. He voted for the Shapla Koli (Water Lily Bud) symbol.

After voting, Sarjis said he cast his ballot for the Shapla Koli, the symbol of a united Bangladesh under the 11-party alliance, and also voted “Yes” in the referendum in a festive atmosphere. He said he voted with the hope of bringing change.

Environment is good so far: Salahuddin Ahmed after casting vote
BNP Standing Committee member and former State Minister Salahuddin Ahmed went to the Pekua polling station in Cox's Bazar to exercise his right to vote. Talking to reporters after casting his vote, he said that the voting environment is good and normal so far.

Salahuddin Ahmed cast his vote at the Government Model GMC Institution center in Pekua Upazila Sadar immediately after the voting for the 13th National Parliament Elections and Referendum began on Thursday (February 12). He cast his vote as a candidate with the paddy sheaf symbol in the Cox's Bazar-1 constituency consisting of Chakaria and Pekua.

At that time, his wife, former MP Hasina Ahmed, son Sayeed Ibrahim Ahmed and other family members also exercised their voting rights at the same center.

Independent candidate for Faridpur-1 boycotts election
Independent candidate for Faridpur-1 constituency Sheikh Abdur Rahman Jico has announced his boycott of the election. He announced this decision at a press conference at his residence in Kuchiagram of Gopalpur Union under Alfadanga Upazila at midnight on Wednesday (February 11).

Sheikh Abdur Rahman Jico said, 'From the beginning, I was a victim of multiple irregularities and discrimination in the election process. The incidents of my nomination paper being first canceled, later returned on appeal, and complications in allocating symbols raise questions about the transparency of the election system. I have also taken this decision due to security and mental stress.'

Jamaat Ameer casts vote in Mirpur
Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer and Dhaka-15 constituency candidate Dr. Shafiqur Rahman has cast his vote in the 13th National Parliament Elections and Referendum. He cast his vote at the Manipur Boys High School center located on 60 Feet Road in Mirpur, the capital, at 8:30 am on Thursday (February 12).

In a brief speech after the vote, Dr. Shafiqur Rahman expressed optimism about the participation of voters in the election. He urged the countrymen to come to the polling centers without fear and exercise their right to vote.

Mamunul Haque casts vote in Mohammadpur
Bangladesh Khilafat Majlis Ameer Mohammad Mamunul Haque, the rickshaw symbol candidate nominated by the Jamaat alliance, has exercised his voting rights in the first hour of polling in the 13th National Parliamentary Election.

The Dhaka-13 constituency candidate cast his vote at 8:10 am on Thursday, February 12, at the Government Physical Education College centre on Sat Masjid Road, Mohammadpur. On the ground, polling that began in the morning was seen to be proceeding smoothly. No signs of violence were observed. Enthusiastic voters were exercising their franchise comfortably, and law enforcement personnel remained in a strict posture.

Nahid Islam casts vote in Badda
National Citizen Party (NCP) Convener Nahid Islam has cast his vote at the AKM Rahmatullah University College centre in Badda, Dhaka. He voted at 8:05 am on Thursday, February 12. Later, he spoke to the media and shared his reactions.

After casting his vote, National Citizen Party (NCP) Convener Nahid Islam appealed to the administration, media, and army to ensure a fair election. He said, "All our movements, struggles, and sacrifices will be rendered meaningless if the election is not fair. We hope they will behave impartially. The administration will also act neutrally."

He said, "Today, February 12, is an important day for Bangladesh. Voting in the 13th National Parliamentary Election began at 7:30 am. I have cast my vote at this AKM Rahmatullah University College centre. I cast my first vote in my life without any hindrance. All of you come to the polling centres without any fear, in a festive atmosphere. Come to the polling centres in large numbers."

Assistant presiding officer found to be Jamaat union ameer, relieved of duty
Humayun Kabir, Assistant Presiding Officer at the Arapara Sadar Alim Madrasa centre in Shalikha upazila under the Magura-2 constituency for the 13th National Parliamentary Election, has been relieved of his duties. Information regarding this was confirmed through concerned sources on Wednesday, February 11. Humayun Kabir is the Ameer of Shalikha upazila's Shatkhali union Jamaat-e-Islami and a religious studies teacher at Baulia Nirod Krishna Secondary School. His residence is in the Katli Madhyapara village of Shalikha upazila. He is the son of Rajab Ali Sarder of that village.

According to concerned sources, information regarding Humayun Kabir's party position and affiliation emerged during verification by DSB and various intelligence agencies. Concerns arose that his impartiality in performing election duties could be questioned, leading to his removal from the position of Assistant Presiding Officer at centre number 48, Arapara Sadar Alim Madrasa.

Shalikha Upazila Executive Officer (UNO) and Assistant Returning Officer Boni Amin said authorities were not initially aware of his party position. Although the verification process was ongoing, the matter had not come to attention earlier. Following confirmation of the information, he was relieved of his duties. He further informed that Sohel Arman, Shalikha upazila Deputy Assistant Agriculture Officer, has been appointed as Assistant Presiding Officer in place of Humayun Kabir.

Voting begins in Rajshahi
Voting began at 7:30 am at the Rajshahi Divisional Women's Complex, reports our divisional correspondent. Presiding Officer Md Suman Haque said around 7:40 am on Thursday, February 12, that polling was ongoing in a peaceful environment. He further informed that 10 votes had been cast so far.

Meanwhile, voting also began peacefully from 7:30 am in Paba-Mohanpur.

Mirza Fakhrul casts vote in his constituency
BNP Secretary General and Thakurgaon-1 constituency candidate Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has cast his vote in the 13th National Parliamentary Election and referendum in his own constituency. He voted at 7:30 am on Thursday, February 12, at the Thakurgaon Government Girls' High School centre.

After casting his vote, he said, "The election being held after a long struggle and sacrifice will be fair, free, impartial and peaceful with the participation of all. This election will create a new chapter in Bangladesh."

According to sources, the centre, which covers the Tantipara, Fakirpara and Kalibari market and temple adjacent areas of Thakurgaon town, has a total of 3,368 voters. Among them, 1,682 are in Fakirpara, 1,512 in Kalibari market and temple adjacent areas, and 174 in Tantipara. A total of 10 booths have been arranged at this centre for male and female voters.

Voters queue at polling stations since morning
Voting for the 13th National Parliament Election and Referendum began at 7:30 am. A tour of various polling stations in the capital shows that voters have been standing in line to vote since morning. However, the presence of voters is comparatively low in the early morning. Members of various law enforcement agencies, including the armed forces, are providing security at the polling stations. Voting will continue until 4:30 pm.

All preparations for voting have been completed before this. Polling officers and candidate representatives attended the centers and made these preparations.