Bangladesh's national parliamentary elections commenced today, February 12, 2026, with polling stations opening at 7:30 a.m. local time across the South Asian nation. More than 127 million registered voters are eligible to participate in this democratic exercise, which will determine the composition of the country's 12th parliament.
The Election Commission confirmed voting will continue until 4:30 p.m., with security measures intensified at all 42,000 polling centers nationwide. This year's election occurs amid heightened global interest in Bangladesh's economic trajectory and its strategic role in South Asian geopolitics.
Observers note the 2026 polls carry particular significance for regional stability and trade partnerships, with Bangladesh's rapidly growing economy attracting increased attention from overseas investors and neighboring countries. The election outcome is expected to influence ongoing infrastructure projects and foreign policy decisions in the Bay of Bengal region.
