BNP Eyes Clear Majority After 19 Years in Opposition

The BNP has expressed strong confidence of securing a clear majority in Thursday’s 13th national election, hoping to return to power after more than 19 years in opposition.

Senior party leaders said months of preparation, an extensive nationwide campaign and what they describe as growing public frustration over economic hardship have strengthened their belief that the party is heading towards a decisive victory.

At the same time, they voiced concern over possible violence, irregularities and attempts at “election engineering” in some constituencies. Leaders also admitted that rebel candidates in around 80 seats could complicate efforts to secure a two-thirds majority.

Under the leadership of acting chairman Tarique Rahman, the party carried out a wide-ranging campaign across the country. From divisional cities to remote districts, he addressed more than 40 rallies, drawing large crowds. Party leaders say the turnout has energised activists and boosted morale ahead of polling day.

The party’s manifesto, titled “Bangladesh First”, promises politics based on justice and humanity, with emphasis on production over corruption, rights over fear and fairness over discrimination. It builds on the 19-point programme of Ziaur Rahman, Khaleda Zia’s Vision 2030 and Tarique Rahman’s 31-point plan.

The manifesto places strong emphasis on anti-corruption measures, job creation and institutional reform. The party has pledged a zero-tolerance policy against corruption, strengthening of the Anti-Corruption Commission, greater accountability in administration and reforms in the police, judiciary and banking sectors.

Youth employment is a central priority. The BNP has promised to create over one crore jobs within five years, expand technical and language training, support start-ups and simplify student loan facilities.

Among its key pledges are monthly support for low-income families through family cards, farmer assistance schemes, recruitment of 100,000 health workers, skill-based education and mid-day meals, promotion of sports as a profession, river dredging and tree plantation programmes, protection of religious harmony and development of a digital economy.

Party leaders argue that these commitments have enhanced the BNP’s appeal, particularly among young voters. They say past governance experience, including achievements in food production, infrastructure, electricity generation and multi-party democracy, demonstrates the party’s capacity to manage the country effectively.

Leaders expressed confidence of strong performances in Dhaka, Sylhet, Barishal, Mymensingh and Faridpur divisions, while expecting competitive contests in Chattogram and Rajshahi. They also see potential gains in Rangpur and Khulna, with some claiming the party could secure more than 200 seats.

However, internal challenges remain. A senior leader acknowledged that the party could not fully manage rebel candidates in several constituencies, particularly in parts of Dhaka and Mymensingh, which may affect outcomes. Some leaders also admitted that outreach to women voters was comparatively weaker in certain areas.

Despite these concerns, party leaders said activists have been instructed to remain vigilant at polling centres and to resist any attempt at vote rigging, while urging voters to cast their ballots peacefully.

A member of the Standing Committee said the party expects a single majority if the Election Commission and authorities act neutrally. The spokesperson of the central election steering committee expressed confidence that voters would ensure the party’s return to power through the ballot.