Bangladesh Shafiqur Rahman Trails at Own Mirpur Booth: Unofficial Count

Bangladesh/ New Delhi: In a striking development from the Bangladesh General Election 2026, Bangladesh Jamaat‑e‑Islami Ameer Dr  Shafiqur Rahman was defeated at his own polling centre in Mirpur, Dhaka, according to initial unofficial counts. 

At the Monipur School and College (Boys’ Branch) centre, Shafiqur Rahman received 560 votes, while BNP‑nominated candidate Mohammad Shafiqul Islam Khan secured 565 votes, giving Khan a narrow five‑vote lead at this specific station. 

These results came amid nationwide voting on February 12, 2026, in what civil society groups and observers widely consider a landmark parliamentary election marking a return to democratic competition following a student‑led uprising that ousted former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in 2024. 

Earlier in the day, Shafiqur Rahman cast his ballot at the same Mirpur centre, expressing optimism about his party’s prospects and saying that if the polls were “free and fair,” Jamaat‑e‑Islami would accept the outcome. 

While the Dhaka‑15 constituency saw Shafiqur leading in several other polling centres with thousands of votes, his defeat at this high‑profile centre has attracted attention and raised questions about localized voter dynamics. 

The vote counts are part of a broader national election in which the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has been reported as leading in early tallies across multiple constituencies, signaling strong electoral momentum for the party led by Tarique Rahman. 

This election, observed by international monitors and characterized by significant voter turnout and participation, also includes a constitutional referendum on reforms aimed at shaping the country’s future political structure. 

Despite localized reports of tension and allegations of irregularities from various party leaders, the Election Commission reported generally peaceful voting across the country, with substantial voter engagement throughout the day. 

While unofficial figures indicate strong competition between the BNP and the Jamaat‑led alliance, final results will only be confirmed once vote counting concludes nationwide. The narrow loss for Shafiqur Rahman at his own polling booth highlights the competitive nature of the 2026 polls and could signal evolving voter preferences in key urban constituencies.