The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), led by Tarique Rahman, declared victory in the country’s general election, the first since the 2024 uprising that ousted former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

A party official said the win had been expected, adding: “It is no surprise that the people of Bangladesh have placed their trust in the party capable of fulfilling the aspirations expressed by our youth.”

Earlier projections by television channels indicated that the BNP had surpassed the 150-seat threshold needed for a parliamentary majority, while its main rival, a coalition led by Jamaat-e-Islami, was expected to secure around 70 seats.

A party election spokesman said the BNP was on track to win at least two-thirds of the seats. “With strong popular support, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party will secure a two-thirds majority and form the government,” he said, adding that Rahman had won both constituencies he contested.

In a statement, the BNP described the result as a “major victory” and urged its local officials not to hold street celebrations.