Bangladeshis celebrate historic election after nearly two decades of absence

Bangladesh Holds First Parliamentary Election Since 2024 Uprising

Millions of people in Bangladesh cast their ballots on Thursday in the country’s first parliamentary election since the 2024 uprising. The elections were held alongside a referendum on constitutional reforms aimed at restoring democracy.

The polls closed at 4:30pm local time, and official results are expected early Friday morning. A turnout of around 48 percent was reported up until 2pm local time. Voting took place in 299 of the country’s 300 constituencies, with one seat cancelled following the death of a candidate.

Long queues were seen outside polling stations across the capital Dhaka, home to 20 parliamentary constituencies. Many voters expressed enthusiasm for casting their ballots, with some describing it as an “Eid-like atmosphere.” The government declared a three-day holiday for the election and millions of voters travelled to their hometowns to cast their votes.

The elections were seen as a significant step towards restoring democracy in Bangladesh after years of turmoil. The country’s 173 million people voted on the proposed “July Charter,” which aims to bring sweeping constitutional reforms to prevent future authoritarian rule. Two alliances, led by the Bangladesh Nationalist Party and the Jamaat-e-Islami-led coalition, were in the fray.

The turnout was reported to be high, with many voters expressing hope for a better future. The Election Commission declared that people were voting in an exuberant atmosphere, similar to a festive mood.

Source: Al Jazeera