n a period of transition. Jamaat‑e‑Islami’s Return to Electoral Politics Once barred from electoral politics for much of the last decade, Jamaat‑e‑Islami regained legal status and party registration before the 2026 polls. This reversal of the ban has allowed the party to participate fully in the electoral process alongside other political groups. The party’s leadership, including Ameer Shafiqur Rahman , has focused its campaign on issues such as economic development, job creation, and anti-corruption measures. Leaders have outlined development agendas that include reopening factories, expanding education opportunities, and increasing security for women and children. Jamaat‑e‑Islami is contesting a substantial share of seats as part of an 11-party electoral alliance, which has finalized seat sharing for 253 constituencies. Jamaat is slated to field candidates in 179 seats, with its partners, including the National Citizen Party (NCP) and the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), contesting the remainder. Campaign Environment and Criticisms The conduct of election campaigning has drawn scrutiny from rival parties and observers. The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has accused Jamaat‑e‑Islami of leveraging religious sentiment and offering voter incentives, claims the party has denied. These accusations reflect heightened competition among key political actors ahead of the vote. Security concerns have also featured in the pre-election period. The Election Commission has directed measures for several Jamaat leaders and candidates following requests from the party citing law-and-order challenges. Political Alliances and Broader Dynamics Jamaat‑e‑Islami’s role in the alliance framework extends beyond its own candidates. The party has partnered with groups such as the youth-led NCP, which emerged from the 2024 movement that brought about the government change. While initially seen as a new political alternative, the alliance with Jamaat has produced mixed reactions among younger voters. Jamaat leaders have stated they are open to participating in a unity government if election results lead to a coalition scenario. Anti-corruption and governance improvement efforts remain central to their platform. International Engagement and Observations International attention on the election has included diplomatic engagement with Bangladeshi parties. Reports indicate that some external actors have engaged with a range of political groups, including Jamaat‑e‑Islami, as part of efforts aimed at fostering stability and maintaining international relations. Analysts note that the political environment has shifted significantly since the ousting of the Awami League, with both established parties and new movements competing in what may be one of the most closely watched elections in recent Bangladeshi history. As the Feb. 12 election approaches, Jamaat‑e‑Islami’s active participation represents a notable development in Bangladesh’s political context. The party’s involvement in seat contests and alliance arrangements signals its intent to play a substantial role in parliamentary outcomes. How voters respond and whether Jamaat’s platform translates into electoral success will become clear once ballots are cast and results are announced. Source: AP News