General elections are going to be held in Bangladesh on 12 February 2026. This time, instead of the traditional politics of two Begums, a direct contest between two Rahmans is in discussion in the election field. On one side is Jamaat-e-Islami President Dr. Shafiqur Rahman and on the other side is BNP (Bangladesh Nationalist Party) leader Tariq Rahman. In the current situation, this match is being considered the most important.
Jamaat-e-Islami, which supported Pakistan during the Bangladesh liberation movement of 1971, remained marginalized for a long time due to controversies and restrictions. Former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina had accused this party of spreading fanaticism and violence. An electoral ban was also imposed on the party. Shafiqur Rahman was arrested in the year 2022 and was released after about 15 months. Now the same Shafiqur Rehman is the face of the party in the 2026 elections. 67 year old Shafiqur Rahman is a doctor by profession. He joined Jamaat-e-Islami in 1984 and became the president of the party in 2020. He has lost many parliamentary elections, although his wife has won the elections.
Ideology and controversy
The ideology of Jamaat-e-Islami is seen to be linked to Islamic extremism. There has also been criticism regarding the party’s thinking on women’s freedom and social issues. In this election, the party has not given ticket to even a single woman candidate, due to which the debate has intensified. However, in its election manifesto the party has talked about better relations with neighboring countries including India. This change is being considered a part of political strategy.
alliance with NCP
In this election, Jamaat-e-Islami has formed an alliance with NCP, a party that emerged from the student movement. A total of 11 parties are part of this alliance. However, due to NCP’s decision to join hands with Jamaat, some leaders also resigned. According to seat distribution, Jamaat-e-Islami is contesting on 224 seats, while NCP is contesting on 30 seats. Other alliance partners are fielding candidates on the remaining seats.
Direct contest between BNP vs Jamaat
BNP led by Tariq Rehman is also presenting a strong claim. Political analysts believe that this time the main contest is between BNP and Jamaat-e-Islami. Supporters of both the parties are engaged in campaigning on a large scale.
Ground report from headquarters
This time there is a different atmosphere in the street of Jamaat-e-Islami’s headquarters. The party which once seemed limited due to restrictions and controversies, now the area is filled with its posters and banners. Activists are openly campaigning and claiming victory. While talking to the local people, mixed opinions emerged. Some people are considering Jamaat as a strong option while some are hoping to see BNP in power.
election photo
This time the political equations have changed in Bangladesh Election 2026. On one hand, Jamaat-e-Islami, surrounded by past controversies, is trying to establish itself in the mainstream, while on the other hand, BNP is trying its best to return to power. Now on February 12, it will be decided who gets public support in this fight between “two Rahmans” in Bangladesh politics.
