Bangladesh Holds First Elections After 2024 Student Protests

New York Times - WorldEN 7 min read 100% complete by Anupreeta Das, Saif Hasnat and Lam Yik FeiFebruary 12, 2026 at 02:52 AM

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In Bangladesh, the first general elections since the 2024 student protests are being held. These protests, sparked by job reservation policies and fueled by broader frustrations with corruption and lack of opportunity, led to the ousting of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in August 2024. The current elections are viewed as a test of whether such student movements can translate into lasting systemic change. While some changes, like the police uniform redesign intended to distance officers from the crackdown on protesters, have occurred, activists worry about the extent of actual reform. The Awami League, Hasina's party, is barred from participating in the election.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Nepal 40% Kenya 40% Iran 40% India ×240% Awami League 50% University of Dhaka 50% Tanjina Tammim Hapsa 60% Sheikh Hasina 60% Dhaka ×370% Bangladesh ×790%

Keywords

bangladesh election 90% student protests 80% democratic reform 70% gen z movements 60% political change 50% corruption 50% authoritarian government 40%