Rising Political Violence Ahead of Bangladesh's February Elections

As Bangladesh approaches its parliamentary elections on February 12, 2026, political violence has surged, reviving fears of a return to the tumultuous climate that characterized previous electoral cycles. Since the announcement of the election schedule on December 11, at least 16 political activists have been killed, with the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and its coalition partners bearing the brunt of the violence. This election marks the first since the ousting of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who was removed from power during a popular uprising in August 2024.

‘Frightening situation’: Bangladesh elections haunted by political violence

The recent killings include notable figures such as Hasan Mollah, a local BNP leader shot on January 23, and Sharif Osman Hadi, a youth leader killed in December. Reports indicate that 13 of the 16 fatalities since the election announcement were BNP members, while the remaining victims included leaders from the Jamaat-e-Islami and the banned Awami League's youth wing, Jubo League. Despite the government's assertion that these incidents lack political motives, activists express deep concern over the implications of such violence.

‘Frightening situation’: Bangladesh elections haunted by political violence

The political landscape is fragmented, with the BNP leading a coalition of 10 parties against the Jamaat-e-Islami's 11-party alliance. The Awami League, once a dominant force, has been banned from participating in the elections. Tensions have escalated between rival factions, with reports of intimidation and threats within the BNP itself, particularly in constituencies where rebel candidates are contesting against official party nominees.

‘Frightening situation’: Bangladesh elections haunted by political violence

In response to the rising violence, the Bangladesh Police have stated that they are closely monitoring the situation, with additional security measures being implemented in vulnerable areas. Approximately 900,000 personnel, including military members, will be deployed to ensure security during the election period. Authorities maintain that the current level of violence is lower than in previous elections, attributing this to improved coordination among security agencies.

‘Frightening situation’: Bangladesh elections haunted by political violence

Critics, including election watchdogs, express skepticism about the credibility of the upcoming vote. Badiul Alam Majumdar, head of the citizen platform SHUJAN, highlighted the challenge of overcoming historical fears of electoral violence. Former Prime Minister Hasina, now in exile, has called for her supporters to overthrow the Yunus-led government, further inflaming political tensions.

‘Frightening situation’: Bangladesh elections haunted by political violence

• “We fear violence as election day approaches,” — Jubaer Ahmed, Jamaat leader

‘Frightening situation’: Bangladesh elections haunted by political violence

• “Preventing their use in election-related violence is a top priority,” — AHM Shahadat Hossain, Additional Inspector General, Bangladesh Police

‘Frightening situation’: Bangladesh elections haunted by political violence

• “The real challenge,” he said, “is whether official assurances can overcome fear rooted not only in current events, but in history”.” — Badiul Alam Majumdar, Head of SHUJAN

‘Frightening situation’: Bangladesh elections haunted by political violence

As Bangladesh prepares for its parliamentary elections, the specter of political violence looms large. With a history of electoral turmoil and ongoing tensions among political factions, the upcoming vote will be a critical test of the country's democratic resilience and the effectiveness of its security measures.

‘Frightening situation’: Bangladesh elections haunted by political violence