Story perspectives

Youth-Led Party Faces Challenges in Bangladesh Elections

1/21/2026

Center

Youth Party Contesting

In Bangladesh, the youth-led National Citizen Party (NCP) will contest 30 of 253 seats in the February 12 elections, as part of an alliance dominated by Jamaat-e-Islami that will field 179 candidates.
Student leaders who mobilized protests against former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina now face diminished political power.
The alliance's structure raises concerns that the sizable youth bloc—nearly 40% of voters aged 18 to 37—will have limited influence on governance.

Right

Jamaat's Strategic Revival

Jamaat-e-Islami is transforming ahead of February parliamentary elections to capitalize on discontent after August 2024 ousting of Sheikh Hasina.
The party has adopted a more inclusive stance, nominating a Hindu candidate and advocating for women's rights.
Critics say these moves are superficial.
Analysts say Jamaat's revival stems from frustration with the Awami League's authoritarianism.
Minority communities fear that a Jamaat rise could threaten security and push for stricter governance.

1 of 2

Youth Party Contesting

In Bangladesh, the youth-led National Citizen Party (NCP) will contest 30 of 253 seats in the February 12 elections, as part of an alliance dominated by Jamaat-e-Islami that will field 179 candidates.
Student leaders who mobilized protests against former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina now face diminished political power.
The alliance's structure raises concerns that the sizable youth bloc—nearly 40% of voters aged 18 to 37—will have limited influence on governance.

1 / 2